Sweet Autumn Clematis...

After we moved to North Carolina, I discovered Sweet Autumn Clematis (Clematis terniflora) growing here all on its own. I guess it could be considered a weed, but definitely not of the Kudzu variety. I have found it to be a useful addition to my garden.



It does reseed itself, although not insanely like the Morning Glories. It is easy to pull out and doesn't mind being transplanted (more carefully than pulling it out) if you do want to keep it, only in a different location.




My Sweet Autumn Clematis attracts these Blister Beetles. You don't want to mess with Blister Beetles! Apparently they have that name because they release a toxin that makes your skin blister. Also, if very many of them are in alfalfa hay eaten by horses, it can be fatal to the horses. So I just watch the beetles eat the plant and leave them alone.




Can ya guess why it's called Sweet Autumn Clematis? Oh, you think it has something to do with the fact that it blooms in the Fall (or late summer)? And that it is lightly fragrant? I'm thinkin' you may be right.



I have it growing several places in my garden, planned and unplanned. I've started it growing along the duck yard fence. Some year maybe I'll get it over the entire fence. The ducks like take naps in its shade.




It also grows on the end of the deck, in Julie's white garden. As it climbs up the deck, it twines into the plants I have in pots on the deck, so it becomes part of my vignette as well as Julie's.


Have a beautiful day!