Clematis 'Jackmanii'

Royal Horticultural Society Award of Garden Merit

Clematis 'Jackmanii', a garden classic cherished since the 1800s, brings a vibrant splash of color with its mass of violet-purple flowers, perfect for early to late summer. Renowned for its long bloom time, this perennial, large-flowered clematis vine unfurls its frilly centered, cream-colored anthers amidst 5- to 7-inch dark purple flowers, most commonly seen with four petals, though occasionally boasting five or six. Blooming on new wood, 'Jackmanii' matures into a tapestry of color, attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds alike, creating a pollinator paradise.

This fast-growing, deciduous climber exhibits a twining and trailing habit with lush, dark green leaves that remain fresh and attractive through the season. Adhering to the gardener's adage—"The first year they sleep, the second year they creep, and the third year they leap"—'Jackmanii' is perfect for training up trellises, arbors, posts, or fences, adding a dynamic vertical interest to any garden space. When paired with a climbing rose, it creates an exquisite floral display, intermingling blooms throughout the warmer months.

Clematis 'Jackmanii' thrives in full sun to part shade and is adaptable to a variety of well-drained soils, from alkaline to acidic, including chalk, clay, and loams. Emphasizing the importance of site selection, this variety succeeds when planted with its "feet in the shade and head in the sun," ensuring cool, shaded roots and sun-drenched leaves. While cold hardy and easy to grow, 'Jackmanii' benefits from protection against strong winds and prefers locations with good air circulation and drainage, showing resilience against deer.

As a Group 3 late-flowering variety, 'Jackmanii' requires hard pruning in late winter to encourage vigorous new growth and to maintain its stunning display of blooms from early spring through fall. This pruning regimen ensures a rejuvenated plant each year, capable of reaching its full flowering potential. Suitable for a variety of garden applications, including arbors, pergolas, trellises, walls, fences, borders, beds, and containers, 'Jackmanii' offers flexibility and beauty in garden design.

Knowing the type of clematis vine you have will help you cultivate vibrant and healthy clematis plants. Follow our expert advice that includes Clematis Planting and General Care as well as How to Prune Clematis with instructions for each type of clematis vine. Using these growing tips will ensure a stunning display in your garden season after season.