Clematis flammula - Fragrant Clematis
Valenciano: Trencaqueixal
Spanish: Hierba de los pordioseros
A climbing, woody stem bears long-stalked leaves which are oblong with up to
three lobes. The sweetly scented white flowers have 4 "petals" which
are felted on the edges. A similar species, Clematis vitalba is hairy
on both sides. Flowers from June to August. Found abundantly in the Javea valley.
A Spanish botanist explains that the plant is a potent skin irritant and relates
how beggar children used to rub themselves with itt to make themselves look
particularly down and out. (word of mouth!)