Clematis viticella Ernest Marckham

Clematis 'Ernest Markham' is a climbing perennial that boasts a long and generous flowering. Its large star-shaped flowers in enchanting shades cover the foliage almost throughout summer. Their velvety purple shade oscillates between deep pink or red, and enhances a small light heart with pale-yellow reflections. This vigorous plant climbs on tall supports such as arches, pergolas, and fences.

This cultivar, dating back to the early 20th century, comes from England. Its name was given in tribute to the gardener of a manor in Sussex. It belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. Like most of its cousins, it prefers light, deep, moist, and fertile soil that is preferably neutral. It appreciates a sunny or partially shaded position, with the base always in the shade. It is hardy and withstands cold weather. It is not afraid of frost, even if it is severe. However, it does not like stagnant moisture, so the substrate must be well-draining and watering should be moderate (if necessary, especially in the first year).

This beautiful climber can sometimes extend up to 4m (13ft) in length. It bears large, single flowers measuring approximately 10cm (4in) in diameter. They bloom from July to August. The flowers are made up of six ovate tepals, ending in a point, with a slightly undulate margin. They open fully in a star shape, revealing a cream stamen heart with brownish anthers. Their subtle colour wavers between pink and red for a long time and often ends up compromising in purple, with violet nuances. This combination is changeable depending on the exposure: it fades in sunlight and intensifies in shade. Fruits appear after the flowers, which will decorate the foliage until winter. The deciduous leaves are composed of 3 to 5 leaflets. They are a stunning bright green, providing a beautiful background for the flowers. They are carried by voluble stems that twine around their support.

Clematis 'Ernest Markham' brings strength and vibrancy to compositions based on pink or red. It will elegantly dress up a slightly neglected wall in a partially sunny position, in the company of its cousins from the same genus. Choose light shades, such as C. 'Parasol', C. 'Andromeda', or C. 'Hanagurama' to enhance the overall look. Alternatively, place the perennial Geranium phaeum 'Mourning Window' and Heuchera 'Plum Pudding' at its base to stay in the same tone.