Clematis vitalba 'Ernest Markham'
vine RHS Award

Ernest Markham Clematis

Clematis vitalba 'Ernest Markham'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Vine

Height

144 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Hybrid origin

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Clematis 'Ernest Markham' is a deciduous, large-flowered climbing vine, prized for its profuse, vibrant magenta-red flowers. It is a member of the late-flowering group (Pruning Group 3). This cultivar is notable for its rich color and robust growth habit, making it a popular choice for providing color and coverage.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesClematis vitalba Ernest Markham provides lush foliage and fragrant, attractive flowers that add vertical interest and scent to gardens.
Practical UsesIts vigorous growth can quickly cover unsightly structures, creating natural privacy screens.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators with nectar-rich flowers and provides habitat for wildlife.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck young vines into a sturdy trellis or fence for support.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
  3. Water consistently, especially during dry periods, to encourage healthy growth.
  4. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to boost vigor.
  5. Prune after flowering to shape the vine and remove dead or weak stems.
  6. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Provide a sunny or partly shaded spot for optimal flowering and vigorous growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply during hot, dry spells 🌱
  • Prune after flowering to maintain shape
  • Support with a strong trellis or arbor
  • Feed with a balanced fertilizer in spring

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Don’t prune in late summer or fall, which can reduce flowering
  • Do not plant in poorly drained soil
  • Avoid neglecting support structures

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Plant
Prune
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Climbing vine on arbors and trellisesWildlife-friendly hedge with fragrant bloomsDecorative garden feature with lush foliage

Companion Plants

Roses Lavender Daylilies Hostas Ferns

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Ernest Markham Clematis questions

What zones can Ernest Markham Clematis grow in?

Ernest Markham Clematis is hardy in USDA Zones 4–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Ernest Markham Clematis deer resistant?

Yes β€” Ernest Markham Clematis is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Ernest Markham Clematis bloom?

Ernest Markham Clematis typically blooms in mid-summer to early fall through mid-summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Ernest Markham Clematis need full sun?

Ernest Markham Clematis does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow Ernest Markham Clematis with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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