Clearwater National Forest

Clematis columbiana (Columbia clematis)

Columbia clematis is a common vine of grand fir and Douglas fir forests. It occurs less commonly in western redcedar and subalpine fir habitats. This inconspicuous vine will not often be noticed except when its large and numerous spectacular blue flowers are in bloom in April and May (June at higher elevations). It clambers through the lower branches of trees and over tall shrubs. The forested portions of Highway 12 are good places to view this species when it is in bloom.