Contents
Description
Clematis Ernest Markham is a stunning flowering plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. This plant is a deciduous vine that is commonly grown for its beautiful, large, magenta-red flowers that bloom from spring to fall. It is a fast-growing plant that can reach up to 10 feet in height, making it an excellent choice for covering fences, walls or trellises. This plant is native to China and Japan but is now widely cultivated around the world for its striking appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Clematis |
Appearance
Clematis Ernest Markham has large, striking magenta-red flowers that measure up to 5 inches in diameter. The flowers bloom from spring to fall and are followed by fluffy seed heads that add to the plant’s visual appeal. The leaves of this plant are dark green and have a glossy texture. The plant itself is a deciduous vine that can grow up to 10 feet in height and 4 feet in width. It is a fast-growing plant that requires support to climb.
Care Guide
Caring for Clematis Ernest Markham requires some attention, but it is not difficult. Here are some tips:
- Water: This plant requires consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. Water the plant regularly, ensuring the soil is evenly moist.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Repeat every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH level between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal.
- Sunlight: Clematis Ernest Markham prefers full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, it is best to provide some afternoon shade to protect the plant from heat stress.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Clematis Ernest Markham is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some of the common issues you may encounter:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Spider Mites: These tiny, red or yellow mites can cause yellowing or bronzing of the leaves. Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Wilt: This fungal disease can cause the plant to wilt and die. Remove and destroy infected plant parts, and ensure proper watering and drainage.
Habitat
Clematis Ernest Markham is native to China and Japan but is now widely cultivated around the world for its stunning appearance. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and requires consistent moisture during the growing season. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Clematis Ernest Markham?
A: You should water your Clematis Ernest Markham regularly, ensuring the soil is evenly moist. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Q: What is the ideal pH level for the soil?
A: This plant prefers a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0.
Q: How do I fertilize my Clematis Ernest Markham?
A: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Repeat every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Clematis Ernest Markham?
A: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Related Plants
- Clematis Jackmanii
- Clematis Nelly Moser
- Clematis Montana
- Clematis Sweet Autumn
References
- “Clematis ‘Ernest Markham’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282748.
- “Clematis Ernest Markham.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/10412/Clematis-Ernest-Markham/Details.
