Old-man's-beard
Clematis ligusticifolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Old-man's-beard 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
full sun
Water
medium
Size
120"–360" H × 60"–180" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
KS
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Old-man's beard is a vigorous native vine that produces masses of small white flowers in summer, followed by fluffy, silvery seed heads that give it its common name. This fast-growing climber can quickly cover fences, arbors, or other structures with its attractive foliage and blooms.
In an HOA neighborhood
Old-man's-beard takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Extremely vigorous growth can appear uncontrolled
- Fluffy seed heads may look messy to some
- Large size requires constant management in formal settings
Wildlife value
The abundant summer flowers attract bees and beetles for nectar and pollen. The dense vine provides nesting sites and cover 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 Old-man's-beard and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.