Overview

Clematis 'Ernest Markham' (LL) is a climbing climber wall shrub in the genus Clematis, part of the Ranunculaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 2.5-4 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Clematis 'Ernest Markham' (LL) grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include climbers, walls, fences, obelisks, pergolas, trees, containers and mixed borders.

About

Clematis 'Ernest Markham' is a deciduous climbing cultivar within the Clematis genus, part of the buttercup family Ranunculaceae. This vigorous climber reaches heights of 2.5 to 4 metres with a spread of 0.5 to 1 metre, taking 2 to 5 years to reach full height. It thrives in full sun on south- or west-facing aspects and tolerates a range of soil types including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, preferring moist but well-drained alkaline or neutral soils. Suitable for growing on walls, fences, pergolas, and in mixed borders, it provides interest through summer, autumn, and winter.

About the genus

Clematis is a genus of about 380 species within the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. Their garden hybrids and cultivars have been popular among gardeners, beginning with Clematis 'Jackmanii', a garden staple since 1862. More cultivars are being produced constantly, mainly of Chinese and Japanese origin.

Wikipedia contributors, "Clematis", CC BY-SA 4.0Clematis

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Clematis

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Clematis 'Ernest Markham' (LL) size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Climber Wall Shrub
Habit
Climbing
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
2.5-4 metres
Spread
0.5-1 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Climbers, Walls, Fences, Obelisks, Pergolas, Trees, Containers, Mixed borders

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Clematis 'Ernest Markham' (LL)

Cultivation
Plant in well-drained soil in full sun. Provide support for climbing. Water regularly during dry periods. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pruning
Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to remove dead or weak stems and encourage new growth. This cultivar flowers on new wood.
Propagation
Seed, cuttings, layering, division
Pest resistance
Slugs, Snails, Aphids
Disease resistance
Powdery mildew, Clematis wilt

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Clematis 'Ernest Markham' (LL)?

Plant in well-drained soil in full sun. Provide support for climbing. Water regularly during dry periods. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Where is the best place to plant Clematis 'Ernest Markham' (LL)?

Clematis 'Ernest Markham' (LL) prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Clematis 'Ernest Markham' (LL) need?

Clematis 'Ernest Markham' (LL) is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Clematis 'Ernest Markham' (LL)?

Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to remove dead or weak stems and encourage new growth. This cultivar flowers on new wood.

How big does Clematis 'Ernest Markham' (LL) grow?

Clematis 'Ernest Markham' (LL) reaches a height of 2.5-4 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.

Is Clematis 'Ernest Markham' (LL) hardy in the UK?

Clematis 'Ernest Markham' (LL) has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.

How do I propagate Clematis 'Ernest Markham' (LL)?

Seed, cuttings, layering, division.

More in the Clematis genus

Browse all Clematis