Clematis 'Niobe'

Clematis 'Niobe' was raised in 1970 by Polish breeder Władysław Noll and introduced to the British Isles in 1975 by Jim Fisk of Fisk's Clematis Nursery in Suffolk, England. Named after Niobe from Greek mythology, it was one of the very first large-flowered dark red hybrids – a sensation at a time when no comparable variety existed. The flowers, up to 14 cm in diameter, open in an almost black, deep velvety ruby-red that gradually brightens through the season, tending towards purple. The six to eight broad sepals, tapering towards the tips, have a distinctive velvety sheen, while their golden-yellow stamens provide a striking contrast to the dark blooms.

As an early hybrid, 'Niobe' flowers from June to September – a second flush in August frequently follows after a short pause. With a well-manageable height of around 250 cm, it is equally suited to trellises, obelisks, and container growing on a terrace or balcony. Both sunny and partially shaded positions are tolerated; in fact, the exceptionally dark flower colour lasts longest in dappled shade, as direct sunlight causes the deep black-red to fade more quickly. 'Niobe' creates a particularly striking contrast alongside shrubs or climbing partners with light or yellow-green foliage, and also makes an excellent cut flower.

'Niobe' is reliably hardy (Zone 6, -23.3 to -17.8 °C) and perfectly suited to German gardens. As an early hybrid in Pruning Group 2, it flowers on old wood: after the first flowering, cut the plant back to about 100 cm in June; in early spring it is enough to remove dead and weak shoots. Those who prefer a more abundant, slightly later overall display may opt for a hard prune following Group 3 – this works well but sacrifices the May/June early flowers. Awarded the RHS Award of Garden Merit in 1993, 'Niobe' has since become one of the most widely planted and proven clematis in the world.