Virgin's Bower -- Clematis virginiana
Virgin’s Bower is a showy perennial vine that attracts Halictid bees and possibly some others (illinoiswildflower.info). It is the host to 8 species of butterflies and moths in our area (nwf.org). This is a deer resistant, long blooming, vigorous vine that easily twines around whatever is nearby. The flowers are followed by interesting seed heads reminiscent of Prairie Smoke. Virgin’s Bower’s foliage can provide good cover and nesting habitat for many songbirds (illinoiswildflower.info).
Photo credit: Helena Jacoba (1), Jane Nearing (2)
Virgin’s Bower is a showy perennial vine that attracts Halictid bees and possibly some others (illinoiswildflower.info). It is the host to 8 species of butterflies and moths in our area (nwf.org). This is a deer resistant, long blooming, vigorous vine that easily twines around whatever is nearby. The flowers are followed by interesting seed heads reminiscent of Prairie Smoke. Virgin’s Bower’s foliage can provide good cover and nesting habitat for many songbirds (illinoiswildflower.info).
Photo credit: Helena Jacoba (1), Jane Nearing (2)
Virgin’s Bower is a showy perennial vine that attracts Halictid bees and possibly some others (illinoiswildflower.info). It is the host to 8 species of butterflies and moths in our area (nwf.org). This is a deer resistant, long blooming, vigorous vine that easily twines around whatever is nearby. The flowers are followed by interesting seed heads reminiscent of Prairie Smoke. Virgin’s Bower’s foliage can provide good cover and nesting habitat for many songbirds (illinoiswildflower.info).
Photo credit: Helena Jacoba (1), Jane Nearing (2)
Life Cycle: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Full, Partial (may prefer partial sun)
Soil Moisture: Medium-wet, Medium, Medium-dry
Height: Up to 20 feet
Plant Spacing: 3-4 feet
Bloom Time: July-September
Bloom Color: White
Advantages: Deer Resistant
Host: 8 species of butterflies and moths use this as a caterpillar host plant in our area (nwf.org)
