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 4.0 — Clematis
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
- Clematis 'Fukuzono' (I)

- Clematis douglasiiChaparral Clematis

- Clematis stans

- Clematis × eriostemonClematis

- Clematis × jouiniana

- Clematis 'Edward Prichard'clematis 'Edward Prichard'
- Clematis 'Fairydust' (Vt)
- Clematis 'Herbert Johnson' (EL)