A graceful native clematis climbing through shrubs and trees, covered in starry white flowers in spring followed by fluffy silvery seed heads. A delicate cover for shaded fences and woodland gardens.
At a glance
- Plant type: Climber
- Mature size: 5 m H × 3 m W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun, shade and low-light positions and full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Old Man's Beard
Botanically, Clematis aristata is a fast-growing climber in the Ranunculaceae family, native to New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania and Queensland. It reaches around 5 m tall and 3 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. White and cream green flowers appear in spring.
Where to grow Old Man's Beard
Old Man's Beard suits cool-temperate, warm-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun, shade and low-light positions and full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Old Man's Beard does best in free-draining and clay soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool. For a screen, space plants about 1.8 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Old Man's Beard does best with regular, moderate watering. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. During the first growing season, water deeply whenever the upper soil begins to dry, then reduce the frequency as roots establish.
Pruning & care
Prune Old Man's Beard after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Old Man's Beard in the garden
Old Man's Beard earns its place for a fast screen or informal hedge and a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
Combine Old Man's Beard with plants that share its preference for regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Buying Old Man's Beard
Plant Sale lists Old Man's Beard as tube stock, potted plants and advanced specimens. Current stock is confirmed with your quote; ask about your preferred size before planning a purchase.
