Ranunculaceae: a scrambling hedgerow perennial to 20m. Found mainly on chalky soils, but not limited to them. The flowers are creamy-white, with prominent stamens, borne in clusters, flowering from July-August. The clusters of seeds form woolly whitish plumes, these give the plants common name of Old Man’s Beard. The leaves are divided into 3-5 leaflets. Locally common in central and Southern England, and Wales. Native to Europe, including Britain, from the Netherlands south and east to North Africa and the Caucasus.
The leaves are analgesic, diuretic and rubefacient, the boiled roots and stems are used as a cure for the itch. When applied in the nostrils, the plant juice has been used to relieve migraine attacks, but it can also destroy the mucous membranes. The plant should not be taken internally because it is poisonous. A homeopathic remedy is made from the plant, can be used in the treatment of rheumatism and skin eruptions.
Clematis seeds are best soon fresh in the autumn. The sowing must be kept warm (about +18 to +22°C) [about 64 to 72°F] and moist for the first 2–4 weeks. After this period the sowing must be kept at a cold temperature (between –4 and +4°C) [between 25 and 39°F] for another 4–6 weeks. Colder temperatures of –5°C [23°F] can be advantageous for most species of the Ranunculus family.
Prefers a deep moist soil with its roots in the shade. Base rich well-drained soil. Full sun to part-shade.