Jackman Clematis

(Clematis x jackmanii)

August 1996

Summary:

Foliage: Deciduous broadleaf
Height: Climbs 8 to 10 feet
Shape: Spreading

Summer foliage is bright green. Large flowers of various colors, sizes, and shapes bloom from spring to fall frost depending on variety.

Plant Needs:

Zone: 3 to 8
Light: Partial shade
Moisture: Wet, moist, or dry
Soil Type: Sandy or loam
pH Range: 4.5 to 7.3

Functions:

Suggested uses for this plant include climbing vine.

Planting Notes:

Plant in location where roots are shaded, but the vine is in full sun.
Avoid planting in extremely wet locations.
Provide structure/support for the vine.
Mulch around base of plant to keep roots cool.

Care:

While pruning time varies due to different flowering times, it is not usually needed during first two years of growth.
Clematis that bloom in spring (on previous year's growth) should be pruned after flowering.
Jackman types flower on new growth in July and August, and can be heavily pruned in early spring before growth starts.

Problems:

Serious problems include leaf spot and stem rot.
Susceptible to other insects, including black blister beetle, borer, mites, white flies, scale insects, and root knot nematodes.

Alternatives:

Consult local sources, including historic or public gardens and arboreta, regarding cultivars and related species that grow well in your area.

Cultivars of CLEMATIS X JACKMANII:
`Alba' has large, single, white flowers.
`Nelly Moser' is one of the most popular types and has large pink flowers. It will flower in June if some of previous year's growth is left.

Related species:
CLEMATIS PANICULATA (Sweetautumn Clematis) has a rampant growth habit; covered with small, white, fragrant flowers in late summer.

Comments:

Clematis are deciduous vines which climb by twining stems, which act as tendrils.
Clematis are among the most decorative and spectacular flowering vines.
The large-flowered Clematis hybrids are the most widely used.
Excellent for use on trellises, fences, and rock walls.

Additional Materials:

The following Extension publications are available through your local Extension office or directly from: Virginia Tech Extension Distribution Center 112 Landsdowne St. Blacksburg, VA 24061
#426-608 "Selecting Landscape Plants - Ornamental Vines

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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