Jackman Clematis (Clematis jackmanii): Popular Purple Vine for Mailboxes and Trellises

Clematis jackmanii

Big, bold, beautiful, deep purple—this summer clematis is hard to miss, especially adorning its usual spot: a mailbox. Undoubtedly one of the most popular clematis species. Dozens of cultivars exist. Easier to grow than earlier-blooming varieties, Jackman clematis is the vine of choice for a noisy floral statement. Growing shorter than other clematis, it fits where a smaller-statured vine is needed. Like most clematis, it's somewhat bland when not in bloom, lending itself well as a "mixer" with more appealing vines or shrubs.

Bloom Period & Color

Perennial; deciduous; various color flowers depending on variety, in summer

Light Requirements

Full sun, Part sun/shade

Planting

Plant in fall or spring. Spring planting preferable due to early summer bloom. Install where top receives full sun (light shade tolerated) but roots and base are shaded. Soil should be fertile, moist, well-drained. Amend compacted soil with 3-inch layer of soil conditioner mixed 6-8 inches deep.

Growing Tips

Water young plants weekly until vigorous growth. Established plants handle mild drought but may need supplemental water in extreme dryness. Use half-tablespoon 10-10-10 per foot of height in April with secondary "bloom booster" fertilizer a month later. Mulch 2-3 inches to protect roots from heat and retain moisture.

Care

Blooms on current season's growth; often blooms better when pruned in early spring before new growth. Remove dead/diseased growth anytime. Vine sometimes wilts for no apparent reason—prune dead parts, new sprouts likely from closer to ground.

Companion Planting & Design

Jackman clematis makes a great vertical focal point on a wire obelisk. Shorter stature suits large containers or small trellises. Mixes well with climbing roses, often blooming simultaneously with repeat-blooming roses. For eye-catcher, mix dark purple flowers with softer pink rose. Also successful climbing through evergreen shrubs like holly or loropetalum.

Personal Favorites

'Nelly Moser', 'Comtesse de Bouchard', 'Elsa Spath' are common nursery varieties. Try if clematis novice; seek other cultivars as skills improve.