Chinese Clematis

Over 200 species of deciduous or evergreen, climbers and woody perennials belong to this genus, which occurs in most temperate regions. Many species are grown as ornamentals for their fine flowers and often attractive foliage. Clematis are acrid plants, containing glycosides that have a burning taste and blistering effect. A few are used medicinally, including the European C. recta and C. vitalba, in homeopathic preparations for rheumatism and skin eruptions. The latter is known as herbe aux gueux ("beggars weed") in France, having once been used by beggars to irritate the skin in order to simulate sores. Clematis chinensis was first described in Chinese medicinal formulas 1,000 years ago. Other species used in traditional Chinese medicine include C. armandii, C. montana, and C. uncinata. An Australian species, C. glycinoides, is a traditional Aboriginal remedy for colds and headaches, the acrid smell of the foliage causing profuse watering of the eyes and nose when inhaled.

Deciduous climber or scrambler, with ribbed stems and pinnately divided leaves, which have five ovate to heart-shaped leaflets, to 8cm (3in) long. Panicles of white flowers, 2cm (¾in) across, are produced in autumn.

Common Name:	Chinese Clematis
Botanical Name:	Clematis chinensis
Genus:	Clematis
Family:	Ranunculaceae
Native Location:	C and W China
Cultivation:	Well-drained neutral to alkaline soil in sun, with roots in shade. In spring, cut back shoots and dead stems after flowering. Plants may suffer from powdery mildew and clematis wilt.
Propagation:	By seed sown when ripe; by softwood cuttings in spring, or semi-ripe cuttings in early summer.
Harvest:	Roots are lifted in autumn and dried for use in decoctions.
Height:	8m (25ft)
Width:	8m (25ft)
Hardiness:	Z6
Parts Used:	Roots (wei ling xian)
Properties:	A pungent, warming herb that has painkilling, sedative, and diuretic effects, lowering fever and relieving spasms.
Medicinal Uses:	Internally for rheumatism and arthritis, usually taken in wine. A decoction in rice vinegar is a traditional remedy for dissolving fish bones lodged in the throat.
Warning:	Harmful if eaten, Mild skin irritant.
Bibliography:	Encylopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright ©: 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited pg. 173