Sennin-So, Sweet autumn virginsbower, Sweet Autumn Clematis, Fall Clematis

Clematis terniflora

Physical Characteristics

Clematis terniflora is a PERENNIAL CLIMBER growing to 5 m (16ft 5in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from September to October, and the seeds ripen from October 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 and can grow in very alkaline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Japan.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Leaves Shoots Edible Uses: Young shoots - cooked[105, 177]. Parboiled, then eaten boiled or oil-roasted[183]. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. The young buds (Does this refer to flower or leaf buds?) are parboiled then eaten boiled or oil-roasted, or they can be pickled in vinegar[183]. Flowers[105, 183]. No more details are given.

Medicinal Uses

Antidote Antiscrophulatic Ophthalmic Antidote, antiscrofulatic, ophthalmic. Used in the treatment of corneal opacities[178].

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].