Jackman's Clematis Clematis 'Jackmanii Superba' Cripps (LL)
ABOUT
Clematis 'Jackmanii Superba' is a striking flowering vine known for its profuse blooming and rich, velvety petals. The plant is characterized by its large, star-shaped flowers, which are a deep, royal purple hue that can appear almost black in certain lighting. The blossoms typically have four to six petals that may have a slightly ruffled or wavy edge, adding to their overall luxurious appearance. The stamens in the center of the flowers form a contrasting tuft, which is often creamy white or pale yellow, providing an alluring focal point against the dark petals. When the plant is in full bloom, it creates a lush, cascading blanket of color that is breathtaking to behold. The leaves of Clematis 'Jackmanii Superba' are medium to dark green, compound, and divided into several leaflets. They have a somewhat leathery texture and a shiny surface, arranged alternately along the stems, which allows the foliage to create an attractive backdrop for the dramatic flowers. As the seasons change, the plant may also produce silky, plume-like seed heads that persist into the winter, adding visual interest to the garden even after the flowering period has ended. Overall, Clematis 'Jackmanii Superba' presents a majestic and elegant display that can transform garden trellises, walls, or arbors into an enchanting floral spectacle.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Jackman's Clematis, Jackman Superba Clematis.
Common names
Clematis × jackmanii 'Superba', Clematis 'Jackmanii Superba'
ToxicityTo humans
Clematis, particularly Clematis 'Jackmanii', is considered to be toxic to humans if ingested. The plant contains certain compounds, such as protoanemonin, which can cause digestive discomfort. Symptoms of Clematis poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive salivation. In some cases, contact with the sap can cause skin irritation or dermatitis. It's important to handle Clematis with care and ensure that children do not consume any part of the plant.
To pets
Clematis, including the 'Jackmanii' variety, is also toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. If ingested, pets may experience similar symptoms to humans, such as vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, and possible mouth or throat pain. Skin contact could lead to irritation or dermatitis in sensitive pets. It is advisable to keep the plant out of reach of pets and to consult a veterinarian immediately if you suspect your pet has ingested any part of the Clematis plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
10-12 feet (3-3.7 meters)
Spread
3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
4-8
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Clematis 'Jackmanii Superba' is widely valued for its large, deep purple flowers that add aesthetic value to gardens and landscapes.
- Vertical Interest: Being a climber, it can grow on trellises, walls, or fences, providing vertical interest and making use of vertical spaces in the garden.
- Seasonal Bloomer: It typically blooms from mid to late summer, offering seasonal color when many other plants have finished their display.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees and butterflies, which are beneficial for pollination of gardens and ecosystems.
- Pruning Versatility: It is in pruning group 3, meaning it can be pruned back hard at the end of winter to encourage strong new growth and better flowering.
- Easy to Grow: It is known to be relatively easy to cultivate and care for, which is ideal for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Hybrid Vigor: As a hybrid cultivar, it may exhibit increased vigor and improved resistance to disease and environmental stresses compared to some species varieties.
- Long-Lived: With proper care, these plants can thrive for many years, providing long-term value for gardeners.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Backdrop: The exuberant blooms of Clematis 'Jackmanii' can be used as a stunning natural backdrop for portrait photography sessions.
- Educational Tool: In biology or botany classes, this plant can serve as a hands-on example to teach about climbing plant mechanics and pollination.
- Garden Design and Architecture: Clematis 'Jackmanii' can be used in landscape design to create natural archways or living walls when trained over structures.
- Creative Crafts: The vines of Clematis 'Jackmanii' can be dried and woven into wreaths or other decorative items.
- Culinary Presentation: Although not edible, the flowers can be used for plating aesthetics in high-end culinary dishes before being removed prior to consumption.
- Floral Arrangements: The vibrant flowers can be used in fresh or dried floral arrangements to add height and color to bouquets.
- Art Inspiration: The striking appearance of the Clematis 'Jackmanii' flowers can inspire artists for paintings, textiles, or other visual art creations.
- Theme Gardens: They can be included in a 'purple-themed' or 'moon garden' where the focus is on plants with purple flowers or that bloom in the evening.
- Privacy Screening: When planted in a series, these clematis plants can create a lush, natural screen that adds privacy to a yard or garden space.
- Seasonal Celebrations: The flowers can be used during certain festivals or events as a symbol of vitality and growth, such as during spring celebrations.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Jackmanii Clematis is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Jackmanii Clematis is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Mental Agility: Clematis 'Jackmanii Superba' is often associated with intellectual dexterity and the ability to navigate complex thoughts, much like its vines seek paths through trellises and other supports.
- Ingenuity: Its vigorous growth and the way it finds its way up walls and fences symbolizes creative problem-solving and adaptability.
- Creativity: The rich, velvety purple flowers represent a burst of creativity, inspiring artists and thinkers alike.
- Aspiration: Just as the clematis vine reaches upward, it symbolizes aspiration and striving towards personal goals.
- Beauty: The striking appearance of this cultivar can signify the appreciation of beauty and an aesthetic sense.
WaterJackmanii Clematis prefers a consistent watering schedule, especially during its growing season in spring and summer. Water the plant thoroughly once a week, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. In hotter climates or during particularly dry spells, watering may be increased to twice a week. Generally, this Clematis variety requires about one gallon of water per week, but this can vary with climate and soil conditions. It's crucial to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
LightJackmanii Clematis thrives best in a location with full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot for this climbing plant is where it receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily, but where its roots remain shaded and cool. Morning sun with afternoon shade or dappled sunlight throughout the day is optimal for this plant to bloom successfully.
TemperatureJackmanii Clematis grows best in temperatures ranging from 50°F to 75°F, though it can tolerate brief periods outside this range. This plant can survive winter temperatures down to about -30°F, but should be protected from harsh winds. During the summer, it's important to shield the plant's roots from extreme heat, which can be achieved with mulch or by strategically planting low-growing foliage around its base.
PruningPruning Jackmanii Clematis is important to encourage healthy blooms and growth. Prune in late winter or early spring before active growth begins, removing dead or weak stems. This variety can be pruned back to 6 to 8 inches above a strong set of buds, which stimulates new growth and flowering. Repeat this pruning annually to maintain plant vigor and optimal blooming.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Jackmanii Clematis prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH ranging from neutral to slightly alkaline, around 7.0-7.5. A good soil mix can be created by blending garden soil, compost, and perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage.
RepottingJackmanii Clematis plants typically do not require frequent repotting and can thrive in the same pot for several years. It is recommended to repot only if the plant outgrows its container or if the soil becomes depleted, usually every 3-4 years.
Humidity & MistingJackmanii Clematis does well in average garden humidity levels. Extreme humidity is not necessary, but the plant should not be placed in overly dry conditions for optimal growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light with some direct sun.
Outdoor
Plant in sun to part-shade, shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleClematis 'Jackmanii Superba' Cripps, commonly known as Jackman's Clematis, begins its life as a dormant, bare-root plant or from a cutting rooted in soil. After planting, it emerges in spring with new shoots growing from the root system or the base of the previous year's stems. As it grows throughout the spring and summer, it produces large, dark purple flowers that attract pollinators and garden admirers alike. Following the flowering stage, the plant enters a phase of seed production when the flowers are pollinated, developing small, fluffy seed heads that can disperse in the wind. In autumn, the above-ground parts of the plant die back, and it enters a period of dormancy during the winter months, withdrawing energy to the roots. With the return of warmer weather in spring, the cycle begins anew with the emergence of shoots, bringing the plant back to its growth and flowering stages.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
For the Clematis 'Jackmanii Superba', also commonly known as the Jackman Clematis, the most popular method of propagation is by softwood cuttings. This is usually carried out during the late spring or early summer when the plant's new growth is soft and pliable. To propagate, a gardener would cut a length of young stem, typically 4 to 6 inches (about 10 to 15 centimeters), ensuring that there are at least two sets of leaves or nodes. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is often dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth. The cutting is then planted in a well-draining potting mix, with the bottom node buried. The pot should be kept in a warm, humid environment but not in direct sunlight, and the soil should remain moist but not waterlogged. Roots generally form within a few weeks, after which the new plant can eventually be moved to a more permanent location.
