Clematis Microphylla

Old Man’s Beard / Small-leaved Clematis

Botanical Name: Clematis microphylla
Family: Ranunculaceae
Origin: Australia (native to SA and southern states)
Plant Type: Evergreen to semi-evergreen climbing shrub

Overview

A hardy, Australian native climber that thrives in Adelaide and South Australian conditions, Clematis microphylla produces masses of small, creamy-white, star-shaped flowers from late winter through spring, followed by attractive silky seedheads. Its fine green foliage and twining habit make it ideal for covering fences, trellises, and embankments, or for weaving through native shrubs. Naturally found in SA’s hills and coastal scrub, it is drought-tolerant, adaptable, and blends seamlessly into native and waterwise gardens.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 2.5–4 m H × 2–3 m W (smaller with pruning)
• Growth Rate: 20–40 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Small, fine green leaves; semi-evergreen in cool or dry conditions
• Flowers: Creamy-white to pale yellow starry blooms from late winter to spring, lightly fragrant
• Seasonal Interest: Mass flowering in late winter–spring; fluffy silver seedheads in summer; fine-textured evergreen cover year-round
• Wildlife Value: Excellent for native bees, butterflies, and other pollinators; seedheads provide nesting material; foliage offers shelter for small birds when grown over shrubs or fences
• Tolerance: Highly drought- and heat-tolerant once established; Handles wind and second-line coastal exposure; Tolerates light frost and semi-shaded sites; Performs well in poor, rocky, or sandy soils, typical of Adelaide Hills and coastal plains
• Planting Density: Trellis or fence cover: 1 plant per 2–3 m; Natural groundcover/slope: 1.5–2 m apart; Understory companion: 1–2 m apart for light weaving effect
• Pet Friendly: Non-toxic to cats & dogs

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun to part shade (best flowering in full sun; tolerates part shade under open canopies)
• Soil: Prefers well-drained sandy or loamy soils; tolerates clay loam on slopes; avoid waterlogging
• Water Needs: Establishment: 1-2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks. Established: deep soak every 2-3 weeks in summer (weekly in heatwaves); minimal watering in cooler months
• Maintenance: Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and promote new growth. Can be cut back by one-third in late summer if overgrown. Mulch annually and feed with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser in spring. Minimal maintenance otherwise
• Lifespan: 10–20+ years in well-drained, sunny positions
• Climate Zones: Ideal for Mediterranean and temperate regions of South Australia — thrives across Adelaide plains, Hills, Fleurieu, Barossa, and coastal scrub zones
• Soil pH: Adaptable to slightly acidic to moderately alkaline soils

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Native climber for fences, screens, or trellises
• Natural cover for banks and embankments
• Weave through shrubs such as Eremophila, Westringia, or Grevillea for soft contrast
• Perfect for bush-style and wildlife gardens
• Cascading feature for rocky slopes or retaining walls

Why You Will Love It

A beautiful, soft native climber that brings clouds of creamy flowers in spring and thrives in Adelaide’s dry conditions. Clematis microphylla is tough yet delicate in appearance, offering seasonal charm, wildlife value, and versatility across both formal and natural-style South Australian landscapes.