Climbing Hydrangea Vines

Types

• Climbing hydrangea (Hydrangea anomale petiolaris) is a perennial vine plant that is available in variegated and non-variegated foliage varieties and is hardy in USDA Planting Zones 4 through 8. It is native to Asia, primarily the coastal regions of China and wooded areas in Japan.

Features

• Climbing hydrangea can reach lengths of over 50 feet eventually but it is generally slow to establish, and growth during the first few years is minimal. The vine part of the plant is dark reddish brown or cinnamon and the outer layers of the vine peel as it matures providing an interesting textured look. The leaves are heart-shaped and either dark solid green or variegated green. The vine produces an abundance of flat, lacy white flowers in late May and June and into July.

Water

• The climbing hydrangea does not have any particular moisture demands. The moisture it gets from rain is sufficient unless it is planted where it receives full sun exposure. In that case water it regularly and don't allow it to completely dry out between waterings. It should also be watered during long dry spells regardless of how sunny the location is, especially during the first few years while it is getting established.

Soil

• Plant climbing hydrangeas in nutrient-rich soil that drains well. Add some good rich top soil or well-aged compost to sandy soil for improved nutrient value and water retention. To improve drainage, add sand to soil that is predominately clay. You can also improve clay can with the addition of nutrient-rich top soil and aged compost. The pH should be neutral to acid.

Light

• Climbing hydrangeas prefer a partially sunny to shady location. They can do well in a sunny spot in climates that are not extremely hot and humid as long as they get ample water. Plant them in a shady location in USDA Planting Zones 8 or warmer for best results.

Considerations

• Provide a trellis or some other support for the climbing hydrangea when planting it near a building. They can damage building walls as they climb and also tend to leave a residue. Position the trellis or other climbing support 6 to 8 inches away from the building to keep the hydrangea from reaching over to the building.