Mention hydrangea and most gardeners think of big, poofy flowers on a tidy shrub. While not as established as other species, climbing hydrangea (H. anomala ssp. petiolaris) is slowly gaining recognition as a well-behaved climbing vine.

"This is an outstanding plant that deserves greater use," said Tim Wood, product development manager at Spring Meadow Nursery in Grand Haven, Mich.

Climbing hydrangea is native to the woodlands of Japan and coastal China. Lacy, creamy-white flowers are 6-10 inches in diameter and appear in late June or early July. Inflorescences consist of numerous small flowers, some fertile and some sterile. The sterile flowers are larger and showier and encircle the smaller fertile flowers in the center of the cluster. The effect is unforgettable.

Dried flower clusters persist and add mild ornamental appeal.

Climbing hydrangea is an attractive plant even when it's not in flower. It has glossy, heart-shaped leaves and cinnamon-colored stems with exfoliating bark.

Climbing hydrangea is not for the impatient gardener. Growth will be slow for several years after planting. Once established, growth will improve each year.

Mature plants can reach 50-80 feet tall if they have the support of a large tree. "It looks great on tall trees, on stone pillars, on brick walls or cascading over a rock pile," Wood said. It is not overly aggressive like some vines can be.

Cultural tips

H. anomala ssp. petiolaris is a reliable performer in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-7. While some references mention this plant is suitable for Zone 8, it is somewhat intolerant of the hot and humid conditions of the Deep South, so be prepared to take your chances.

It is best grown in rich, medium-wet, well-drained soil in part to full shade. Plants tolerate full sun in the northern part of its range, but need constant moisture.

Plant it next to a brick wall or aside a tall tree with an eastern or western exposure. On poorly drained soils, raise planting depth several inches and slope soil up to the original soil level of the container. Organic matter such as compost, aged manure or peat moss will improve growth. A surface mulch of 3-4 inches will help retain soil moisture.

This is a great hydrangea for those dealing with deer feeding. Since the plant generally grows above the browse line, the flowers will not be eaten.

Cultivars to try

There are several cultivars worth considering.

'Skylands Giant,' from Spring Meadow, is a large-flowered cultivar selected at New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands.

'Firefly,' also available at Spring Meadow, is a yellow-variegated climbing hydrangea. In spring this plant really shines. As summer progresses its gold margin turns to chartreuse.

Moonlight Magic ('Kuga Variegated') from Hines Horticulture has bright-pink new growth that transitions to a rich, golden color before turning to dark green, providing three layers of colorful foliage. Large, white flowers appear in summer. Golden, variegated foliage continues well into fall.

-- Kevin Neal

SPECIFICS:
Name: Hydrangea anomala ssp. petiolaris
Common name: Climbing hydrangea.
Family: Hydrangeaceae.
Hardiness: USDA Hardiness Zones 4-7.
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade.
Description: A picturesque, non-aggressive vine with large, lacy white flowers in early summer. Glossy heart-shaped leaves are attractive.
Landscape uses: Excellent vine for growing on brick walls or up tall, high-limbed trees. Also can be grown as a groundcover in shady areas or on steep embankments.
For more: Spring Meadow Nursery, (800) 633-8859; www.springmeadownursery.com. Hines Horticulture, (866) 701-3330; www.hineshort.com.

Send this article to a friend

Enter your e-mail address:


Enter your friend's e-mail address:


Click the image below to send:

© 2007 Branch-Smith Publishing