Clematis Clematis 'Madame Édouard André' (LL)

Water

The Clematis 'Madame Édouard André', commonly known as Jackmanii clematis, should be watered deeply and thoroughly so that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Initially after planting and during the first growing season, aim to water about once a week with approximately 1 gallon of water each time, ensuring an adequate soak. After establishment, water requirements reduce, but the plant still prefers a steady moisture level, especially in dry periods, with a deep watering every 2 to 3 weeks if there hasn't been significant rainfall. Clematis roots like to remain cool and moist, so using mulch can help retain moisture and even out the temperature fluctuations in the soil.

Light

Jackmanii clematis thrives best in full sun to partial shade conditions. Ideally, it should receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in extremely hot climates to protect it from the harsh late-day sun. Plant it in a spot where the top of the plant will get plenty of light while the roots can stay shaded, which can be achieved by strategic planting or using mulch.

Temperature

Jackmanii clematis is hardy and can survive a range of temperatures but performs best in temperatures between 55°F and 75°F. It can usually tolerate winter cold down to about -30°F and summer highs up to 90°F, showing the adaptability of this vine. However, ensuring that the root zone remains cool and shaded helps the plant to maintain its health during temperature extremes.

Pruning

Pruning Jackmanii clematis, which is a Group 3 type clematis, encourages strong growth and abundant flowering. It should be pruned in late winter or early spring, cutting the plant back to 12 to 18 inches above ground level to a pair of strong buds. This encourages fresh, vigorous growth, as this plant blooms on current year's stems. Dead and weak stems should also be removed at this time.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Clematis 'Madame Édouard André' thrives best in well-draining, loamy soil enriched with compost or well-rotted manure. The ideal soil pH for this clematis is slightly alkaline to neutral, between 7.0 and 7.5. A balanced mix with generous organic content will retain moisture yet allow excess water to escape, preventing root rot.

Repotting

Clematis 'Madame Édouard André' typically doesn’t need frequent repotting as it is a perennial climbing plant. However, if grown in a container, it should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when it outgrows its pot, using fresh soil to provide nutrients.

Humidity & Misting

Clematis 'Madame Édouard André' prefers moderate humidity conditions but is generally adaptable. It does not require specific humidity levels, making it versatile for different outdoor environments, as long as the soil moisture is well-regulated.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright indirect light, cool base and room to climb.

• Outdoor

  Plant in sun or part shade, provide support, mulch roots.

• Hardiness zone

  4-11 USDA

Life cycle

Clematis 'Madame Édouard André', commonly known as Late Large-flowered Clematis, begins its life cycle as a seed, which upon germination develops into a seedling with basic leaf structures. These seedlings grow into juvenile plants that gradually mature into climbing vines over several years, using leaf tendrils to cling onto support structures. Each spring, the mature Clematis 'Madame Édouard André' enters a vigorous vegetative growth phase where it produces long stems and large, distinctive flowers in shades of deep pink to red with golden stamens, typically blooming in late summer to early fall. After pollination, the flowers develop into fluffy seed heads that contain seeds for dispersal. In winter, the plant goes through a period of dormancy, with top growth dying back, especially in colder climates, but with the root system remaining alive underground. With the return of warmer temperatures in the spring, the plant resumes growth from the root system, completing its annual cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• Clematis 'Madame Édouard André', also known as the Old Man's Beard, is most commonly propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. This method is usually carried out in summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate, a cutting that is 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long is taken from a healthy stem. The bottom leaves are removed, and the cut end is dipped in a rooting hormone to stimulate root development. The cutting is then planted in a pot filled with a mix of peat and perlite, ensuring that the leaf node is buried where roots will form. The pot is placed in a warm area with indirect light and covered with a plastic bag to maintain high humidity. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, after which the new plant can gradually acclimate to its environment before being transplanted to a permanent location.