Leather-flower
Clematis viorna
Last reviewed: June 2026
Leather-flower is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435and your veterinarian's emergency line.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants so you can choose a pet-safe native alternative for your yard.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
36"–120" H × 24"–72" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, DE, GA and 13 more states
Pollinators
bees, hummingbirds, beetles
Leather-flower is a native vine that produces small, nodding purple bell-shaped flowers from late spring through summer. This deciduous climber grows 3-10 feet tall and works well on trellises, arbors, or climbing through shrubs in partial sun locations.
In an HOA neighborhood
Leather-flower is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: foundation, mid zone, backyard only.
- Requires sturdy support structure
- Can look bare in winter when dormant
- Needs annual pruning to maintain neat appearance
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees, beetles, and hummingbirds during the long blooming season. The seed heads provide winter interest and food for birds.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants like Leather-flower and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.