Leaf blade usually 1-pinnate, distalmost leaf occasionally simple; leaflets usually unlobed, occasionally some 1-2-lobed, mostly 4-11 × 1.5-6 cm (occasionally smaller in w part of range), thin. Flowers: sepals mostly 1-3(-3.5) cm; stamens with filaments and extended connectives pubescent, occasionally glabrous. 2 n = 16.

Flowering spring-fall (Mar-Oct). Limestone outcrops in dry to moist woods and thickets, disturbed sites; 0-2200 m; Ark., Ill., Ind., Iowa, Kans., Ky., Mo., Nebr., N.Mex., Okla., Tenn., Tex.; Mexico.

This species is very local in low ground in the Lower Wabash Valley and I have found it twice near the Ohio River. The reports of Blatchley from Vigo County and Clements from Daviess County are, no doubt, correct. Thompson reported it from Carroll County and this report, without doubt, should be referred to the preceding species [Clematis viorna].