CLEMATIS. The better-known clematis are vines of enormously variable size, with divided, usually toothed leaves and a seasonal abundance of mostly wide-open, often colorful flowers. These are distinguished by four to many petal-like sepals and a dense central brush of stamens. Following them are dense heads of silky, long-tailed seeds. The two natives described below are both deciduous vines, among the more moderate of the clematis in size. Draped over neighboring shrubs or climbing up through trees, they lend an interesting touch to the native garden. Sun or light shade (generally the roots should be shaded, if only by the plant itself, to keep root temperatures down), well drained fertile soil, and moderate watering suit most species and hybrids. Hardy to 0-10^oF.

lasiantha. A native of the California chaparral, clambering up through manzanitas and other shrubs. It has 3- to 5-parted leaves, and masses of white 1-2" blossoms in spring. These are followed by beautiful silvery seed heads in summer and fall. Only occasional watering when established.

ligusticifolia. Another California native, distinguished by the more intricately divided leaves and many-flowered clusters of much smaller (under 1") flowers. This is a streamside plant, needing a little more water than C. lasiantha for good growth and bloom..