Species

Clematis vitalbaOld Man's Beard

6 other cultivars

vine

Traveller's Joy

Clematis vitalba 'Poet'

The Story

Plant Bio

Clematis vitalba, commonly known as old man's beard, is a vigorous climbing plant with lush green foliage and abundant fragrant white flowers.

Known for its rampant growth and fluffy, silvery seed heads in autumn which give it the common name 'Old Man's Beard'.

Uses & Benefits:

A vigorous climber with fragrant white flowers that enhances vertical garden spaces and arbors.

Provides excellent coverage for fences and walls, reducing noise and offering privacy.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies with nectar-rich blooms.

SpeciesClematis vitalbaOld Man's Beard

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Vine

Height

360 inches

Width

120 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

Europe

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested

Planting

How to Grow

Select a sturdy trellis or support structure for climbing.
Tuck young vines into the support early in spring.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Mist cuttings in early summer to encourage rooting.
Fertilize with a balanced liquid feed every 4-6 weeks during growing season.
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and promote new growth.

Pro Tip

Plant in well-draining, fertile soil and provide full sun for optimal flowering.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Prune after flowering to encourage bushier growth
Support vines with a sturdy trellis or arbor
Mulch around roots to retain moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t prune in late fall or winter
Never neglect support structures
Avoid planting in overly shaded areas

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Climbing vine on trellisesGreen privacy screensArbors with fragrant blooms

Companion Plants

Lavender Roses SalviaCatmint Hostas

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Traveller's Joy questions

What zones can Traveller's Joy grow in?

Traveller's Joy is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Traveller's Joy deer resistant?

Yes — Traveller's Joy is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Traveller's Joy bloom?

Traveller's Joy typically blooms in mid-summer to fall through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Traveller's Joy need full sun?

Traveller's Joy does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.