Virgin's-bower
Clematis virginiana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Virgin's-bower 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
120"–300" H × 36"–120" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 33 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Virgin's-bower is a vigorous native vine that produces masses of small white flowers in late summer followed by feathery seed heads. This deciduous climber can quickly cover fences, trellises, or arbors with its attractive foliage and fragrant blooms.
In an HOA neighborhood
Virgin's-bower 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
- May be perceived as wild or weedy by neighbors
- Requires frequent pruning to maintain neat appearance
Wildlife value
The abundant summer flowers attract bees and beetles for nectar and pollen. Birds use the fluffy seed heads as nesting material in fall.
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 Virgin's-bower and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.