Clematis buchananiana

Physical Characteristics

Clematis buchananiana is a deciduous Climber growing to 6 m (19ft 8in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from July to November. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - Himalayas from Kashmir to Tibet, Burma and western China.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Drink Tender young leaves - coked as a vegetable[272]. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity[K]. The plant is used in Nepal to make marcha, a fermented cake from which an alcoholic beverage is distilled[272].

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic Odontalgic Poultice Stomachic Vulnerary A paste of the roots is used as a poultice to treat swellings caused by inflammation[272]. The juice of the root is used in the treatment of peptic ulcers[272]. The juice is also inhaled to get rid of coughs and colds[272]. A paste of the stem or root bark is kept pressed against the teeth for about 15 minutes to relieve toothache[272]. The juice of the plant is applied externally to cuts and wounds[272]. It is also taken internally in the treatment of indigestion[272]. The leaf juice is taken internally, and is also applied externally to the forehead, in the treatment of coughs and colds[272]. It is also warmed and placed inside the nose when treating sinusitis[272].

Known Hazards

Although no reports of toxicity have been seen for this species, some if not all members of this genus are mildly poisonous. The toxic principle is dissipated by heat or by drying[65].