Clematis Flower Symbolism Facts & Meaning: Zodiac, Superstitions, Dreams, and Legends
I
Clematis Flower Facts
The Clematis Flower is among the most decorative and spectacular flowering vines in the world. Its genus name came from the Ancient Greek word, “klema” which literally means, ‘twig’, ‘sprout’ or ‘tendril’ and the word “klematis” which roughly translates to ‘a climbing plant’ or ‘vine’. The flower is native to China and Japan, belongs to the Ranunculus family, and most are deciduous vines, some being herbaceous perennials with the exemption of the Clematis Armandii or the Armand Clematis as it is an evergreen. The Clematis genus has around three hundred different species, each with its own unique characteristics.
The Clematis Flowers vary in colors including pink, blue, purple, yellow, and white. Many of them are lightly scented and vary in shape and size. They can be flat, tubular, or bell-shaped and grow as small as 1 inch wide or as large as 5 inches across. Their blooming period even varies depending on the species. Some may grow flower in the summer whilst others may do so in autumn.
Clematis Flowers are great climbers, known to be vigorous growers, and are unsurpassed when it comes to their long flowering presence because of their wide array of colors, diversity, and tolerance to exposure of different climates. They are ideal for walls, fences, trellises, and arbors, although a few won’t grow past 4 feet tall.
The Clematis is indeed beautiful in the eyes but dangerous and highly toxic when consumed as it can cause severe burning sensations in the mouth and may even cause ulcers. An interesting fact though is the seeds and leaves of the Clematis Ligusticifolia, more popularly known as ‘Old Man’s Beard’ was once used as a substitute for black pepper at a time when it was very rare and expensive.
II
Clematis Flower Uses
Clematis is considered an herb. Traditionally, it is used as a medicine that is taken orally to treat headaches, varicose veins, syphilis, gout, rheumatism, bone disorders, and chronic skin conditions. It was also used as a diuretic. Furthermore, in folk medicine, Clematis is used as a poultice to treat purulent wounds and ulcers as well as blisters.
In traditional Chinese medicine, Clematis has been used for its pharmaceutically active components for thousands of years. More studies even revealed that the Clematis Flower has anticancer, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects. Some use it for pain relief and sedative purposes.
Fresh Clematis is, however, unsafe and deemed dangerous to be taken by mouth as it can cause colic, diarrhea, and severe irritation to the stomach, intestines, and urinary tract. Therefore, taking precautions is always advised.
III
Clematis Flower History
It is said that species of wild Clematis Flowers are native to China and had made their way into the Japanese gardens by the 17th century. However, it is from those Japanese gardens where the first exotic Clematises originated when were brought to the European gardens in the 18th century, long before the species were identified in their native habitat in China at the end of the 19th century.
IV
Clematis Flower Positive Symbolism
In terms of the ability to climb, the Clematis symbolizes the beauty of mental strength, as well as motivation, and intelligence. Not only that but it is also known to guide the inner self to find purpose, meaning, interest, and focus.
V
Clematis Flower Negative Symbolism
Known for the fact that it cleverly climbs to reach the sky, it is only expected for the Clematis Flower to have a number of positive symbolisms. However, as the flower climbs, it inevitably crushes the other flowers on its way, moreover, Clematis is quite dangerous for animals and humans alike when consumed carelessly. For this very reason, it is used to symbolize mischief, deception, and even egotism in some situations.
VI
Clematis Flower Cultural Symbolism
The Clematis carries a variety of symbolisms depending on the place and the culture. In the Victorian era, for instance, the flower signifies cleverness and ingenuity given its ability to adapt and to seek solutions in order to climb. During this time period, being given a Clematis Flower usually indicates that they appreciate your intellectual conversation and quick wit.
VII
Clematis Flower Zodiac Sign
It is believed that Pisces plants are mostly related to health, so with their medicinal properties, the Clematis Flower belongs, similar to the miraculous coneflower.
VIII
Clematis Flower in Dreams
Dreaming of the Clematis Flowers is more common than you think because these flowers are actually associated with labor. Similar to other flowers, Clematis carries different meanings depending on what you dreamt of. The best example is when you dreamt of a purple Clematis as it represents aspiration – reaching for the stars. Here are more situations of dreaming of the flower with its corresponding meanings:
Withered Clematis – it simply denotes that you need attention.
Lush Clematis – this indicates a need for balance in your life.
Beautiful Clematis – this serves as a warning that a battle between you and your foe is about to happen.
Clematis in Bloom – this means that you’re ignoring or avoiding a very important family and or emotional issue.
Small Clematis – this implies that something good is awaiting for you.
Gray Clematis – this means that you’ll be making new and fun friends and experiencing a lot of exciting adventures.
Silver Clematis – this is the symbol of the unconscious, the dark side of your personality, and the evil aspects of yourself.
Gold Clematis – this symbolizes security and encouragement, as well as your caring nature.
Multicolored Clematis – this symbolizes profit, self-discovery, and progress.
IX
Clematis Flower Omens and Superstitions
On a spiritual level, it is believed that the Clematis Flower encourages people to explore a variety of philosophies. It also allows one to reach within themselves to create a connection to the divine.
X
Clematis Flower Mythology and Folklore
The Clematis Flower doesn’t have a role when it comes to any mythological stories or folklore but that doesn’t mean that this flower doesn’t have anything to offer at all as it is full of symbolic meaning – both positive and negative.
