The genus Clematis consists of over 280 species of climbing and woody herbaceous species, mostly deciduous, but some evergreen. Whilst they are spread widely over the temperate regions of the world, they mostly grow in the Northern Hemisphere. The genus belongs to the family Ranunculaceae , along with such other varied genera as Aquilegia , Delphinium and Thalictrum . If such supports are not available, they will not climb, say, a wall, but grow as a tangled mass or out along the ground. The ability to climb gives the genus its name, which is derived from the Greek klema, a vine-branch or twig.
Flowers are normally bisexual, though some species have single sex flowers.
They are normally solitary or in panicles. Another important characteristic is the seed heads. Most species carry seed heads which become very attractive as they develop into fluffy balls as the seeds ripen. They truly form an extra benefit to be gained from growing the plants. The aim of classification is to bring together plants with similar characteristics so that, by understanding the group, the needs of the individual can be more easily understood.