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Clematis 'Dr. Ruppel'
Dr. Ruppel Clematis
Garden hybrid of complex Eurasian {Clematis} parentage
Overview
Clematis × 'Dr. Ruppel' is a large-flowered hybrid clematis that climbs 72-96 inches (180-240 cm) tall. Flat, open flowers 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) across — among the larger blooms in commonly grown clematis — feature 6-8 rose-pink tepals with a broad deep carmine-pink central bar running the length of each tepal. The bicolor effect is more vivid than in 'Asao', with the carmine bar contrasting against the lighter pink ground. Cream-coloured stamens with pink-tipped filaments fill the centre. The first bloom in May-June on old wood produces the largest flowers; the second flush in August-September on new growth has slightly smaller blooms. The tepal margins are slightly ruffled, adding textural interest. In full hot sun, the pink fades toward pale mauve; partial shade preserves the strongest bicolor contrast. This is a Group 2 (light prune) clematis: in late winter, dead and weak stems are removed and remaining shoots are cut to strong buds. Hard pruning is avoided, since it removes the old wood needed for the first bloom flush. Clematis wilt can cause sudden stem collapse; cutting affected stems to the base allows crown regrowth. The cultivar was named for Dr. Ruppel of Argentina, who raised it in the mid-twentieth century. All parts contain protoanemonin, toxic if ingested.
Native Range
Clematis × 'Dr. Ruppel' is a garden hybrid of complex Eurasian parentage, raised by Dr. Ruppel in Argentina.Suggested Uses
Trained on trellises, arbours, and fences where the very large bicolor flowers are visible at eye level. The large flower size makes this a display cultivar for close viewing. Container culture works in pots of 10 gallons (38 liters) or more with support. Sites with partial shade maintain the deepest colour intensity.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height6' - 8'
Width/Spread2' - 3'
Reaches mature size in approximately 3 years
Colors
Bloom Information
First flush in May-June on old wood with the largest, most vivid flowers. Second lighter flush in August-September on new growth. Total display approximately 10 weeks. Deadheading after the first flush strengthens rebloom.Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
Rose-pink with a deep carmine-pink central barFoliage Description
Dark green, compound, with twining petiolesGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 4-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Plant in partial shade to full sun with 4-8 hours of light; partial shade preserves the bicolor contrast. The root zone is shaded with mulch or low ground-cover. Well-drained, humus-rich soil. Group 2 pruning: dead and weak stems are removed in late winter, with remaining stems cut to strong buds. Hard pruning is avoided. A support structure for the twining petioles is provided. Watering is regular. Light fertilising in spring supports growth.Pruning
Group 2 (light prune): In late February-March, dead and weak stems are removed. Remaining stems are cut to the highest pair of strong, swelling buds. Old wood is preserved for the spring bloom.Pruning Schedule
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
early spring
Maintenance Level
moderateContainer Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 10 gallons