A clematis is a type of flowering shrub which can be grown to climb up walls or fences. There are many different varieties of clematis.
clematis in British English
(ˈklɛmətɪs, kləˈmeɪtɪs)
noun
any N temperate ranunculaceous climbing plant or erect shrub of the genus Clematis, having plumelike fruits. Many species are cultivated for their large colourful flowers
See also traveller's joy
Word origin
C16: from Latin, from Greek klēmatis climbing plant, brushwood, from klēma twig
clematis in American English
(ˈklɛmətɪs; kləˈmætɪs)
noun
any of a genus (Clematis) of perennial plants and woody vines of the buttercup family, with bright-colored flowers of varying size and form
Word origin
L < Gr klēmatis, brushwood, clematis < klēma, vine, cutting: see clastic