Overview of the western white clematis, Clematis ligusticifolia Nutt.. This vine has pretty white flowers and masses of fluffy seed heads. The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database notes "This speciesÕ traditional name, Pepper Vine, referred to the acrid, peppery taste of the stems and leaves, which Native Americans chewed as a remedy for colds and sore throats. It is said that the crushed roots were placed in the nostrils of tired horses to revive them. Caution is advised: The genus is known to have poisonous species." Photographed at Bluewater Lake Canyon Trail on 27 September 2009.

Closeup of the leaves of the Clematis ligusticifolia Nutt.. Note the viney nature of the plant. Photographed at Bluewater Lake Canyon Trail on 27 September 2009.

Closeup of the fluffy seed heads of the Clematis ligusticifolia Nutt.. Photographed at Bluewater Lake Canyon Trail on 27 September 2009.