Clematis ‘Rüütel’ is a captivating deciduous climber celebrated for its large, velvety, deep red flowers, measuring up to 18 cm in diameter. These blooms feature similarly colored stamens, maintaining an impressive depth of colour even as the flowers fade. The narrow sepals often exhibit charming ruffled edges, adding to the plant’s visual appeal.
This variety blooms in two waves: first in late spring or early summer, then again in late summer to early autumn. Its mid-green ternate leaves provide a lush backdrop throughout the growing season. Compact and vigorous, ‘Rüütel’ typically reaches heights of 1.5 to 2 meters, making it ideal for containers, small gardens, or training over trellises and arches.
Bred by the Kivistik family in Estonia in 1982, the name ‘Rüütel’ translates to ‘knight’ in Estonian, reflecting its noble presence in the garden. It thrives in well-drained, fertile soils with neutral to slightly alkaline pH and prefers locations with full sun to partial shade. As a member of pruning group 3, it requires hard pruning in late winter or early spring to encourage vigorous new growth and abundant flowering.
‘Rüütel’ is also noted for its resilience and its resistance to common pests and diseases. Its striking blooms and robust growth habit make it a standout choice for gardeners seeking to add vertical interest and vibrant colour to their landscapes
