Plant Profile: Clematis ochroleuca

Curlyhead Clematis is a native perennial sub-shrub belonging to the buttercup family, typically found in dry woodlands, sandy grasslands, rocky areas, or disturbed locations throughout the eastern United States and the Piedmont region of North Carolina. This plant exhibits a tidy growth habit, reaching heights of 1 to 2 feet and spreading about 1 foot wide. From April to June, it produces charming, fuzzy, pendulous, solitary bell-shaped flowers, followed by attractive seed heads.

For optimal growth, it should be planted in full sun to light shade within moist to dry, well-drained soils. It thrives beautifully in rock gardens or as part of a perennial border. Propagating this plant through cuttings can be quite challenging, so it is advisable to collect seeds instead. When seeking to purchase this plant, cultivars are typically the most accessible option.