Report #687 - Report: Old Man's Beard (Clematis vitalba)

Old Man's Beard (Clematis vitalba) on Oct 2, 2010

Submitter does not have a specimen

Description of specimen

The weed or vine has a "blossom" that looks like a 4th of July fireworks exploding in the sky. The blossoms run the length of the vine and are very pale green to white in color. Not sure if this is flowering part of the vine or simply the plant foliage. There are no thorns on this weed but there are vines with thorns growing in the same area up and over the laurel hedge. There is also a good undergrowth of ivy. What can be done??

Commentary

Hi, thanks for your question. What you have described sounds most like invasive clematis (Clematis vitalba) to me. Clematis is common enough that it is not considered an early detection species. It is a species that can be controlled, though, with a little effort. If you are able, I would recommend discussing it with whoever is in the building and seeing if that leads to a conversation with the owner. I can track down flyers on clematis, too, if you think that would be helpful. I'm at mitch.bixby@portlandoregon.gov.

Thanks again for checking in with the hotline.

-Mitch

Mitch Bixby
Oct. 4, 2010, 3:50 a.m.

Location

Property on the southwest corner of 13th avenue and Lambert. Can't identify the vine or weed but it is taking over the laurel hedge and walnut tree and poplars that grow along the borders of the property. The building houses an antique store with apartment on the 2nd floor. Not sure who owns the property or is responsible for yard maintenance but I'm concerned that this vine will smother all the natural healthy plants in the area. The back yard is starting to look like a jungle. I'm not sure if this is an invasive species or not. I had trouble with identification. Whatever it is it is definitely invading this space and it's out of control as well as an eyesore.

Old Man's Beard (Clematis vitalba) on Oct 2, 2010

Description of specimen

Commentary

Location

Expert Reviewer