Climbing hydrangea is a handsome woody vine that clings and climbs by attaching itself with tiny rootlets to a wall, trellis, or other support. In early July, it has flat, lacy clusters of fragrant small white flowers that show up well against the glossy green leaves. The horizontal branching pattern can create interesting, sculptural effects against a wall, and the cinnamon-brown bark on older stems peels to create an interesting texture that is attractive in winter. Over the course of years, it may reach 30 to 80 feet in length. This vine can also be used as a ground cover in shady areas. Also known as Hydrangea anomala ssp. petiolaris.
- Family (English) Hydrangea
- Family (botanic) Hydrangeaceae
- Tree or plant type Ground cover, Vine
- Foliage Deciduous (seasonally loses leaves)
- Native locale Non-native
- Size range Large plant (more than 24 inches)
- Light exposure Full sun (6 hrs direct light daily), Partial sun / shade (4-6 hrs light daily), Full shade (4 hrs or less of light daily)
- Hardiness zones Zone 4, Zone 5 (Northern Illinois), Zone 6 (City of Chicago), Zone 7
- Soil preference Moist, well-drained soil
- Tolerances Alkaline soil
- Season of interest early winter, midsummer, late summer, early fall, mid fall, late fall
- Flower color and fragrance Fragrant, White
- Shape or form Vining
- Growth rate Slow