Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris (Climbing Hydrangea)

Native to Asia, Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris (Climbing Hydrangea) is a vigorous, large, deciduous climber that clings by aerial rootlets along the stems. Masses of fragrant white flowers held in flattened clusters, up to 8 in. across (20 cm), appear in late spring to early summer. Resembling lacecap flowers, each cluster consists of tiny, creamy-white to greenish-yellow fertile flowers in the center surrounded by a ring of showy white sterile flowers. Unfurling in spring, the foliage of heart-shaped, shiny, rich dark green leaves, up to 4 in. long (10 cm), keeps its fresh look throughout the summer and turns golden-yellow in the fall. Exposed in winter, the trunk is equally attractive with its reddish-brown exfoliating bark on mature stems, adding a much-needed splash of color to the winter landscape. An extremely versatile vine with year-round interest that looks terrific climbing up a wall as it clothes it with its pretty foliage and delicate lacecap flowers. A very popular and elegant landscape plant.

• Winner of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society for its noteworthy qualities.
• Grows up to 30-40 ft. tall (9-12 m) and 5-6 ft. wide (150-180 cm). Slow to establish, but quite vigorous thereafter. If unsupported, this vine can form a sprawling shrub, up to 3-4 ft. tall (90-120 cm)
• A part shade to full shade lover, it is best grown in rich, moist, well-drained soils. Full sun is tolerated if constant moisture is provided. Intolerant of hot and humid conditions.
• ideal to cover unsightly walls, and fences. Effective climber against walls. Looks fantastic climbing up arbors, fences, or the trunks of large trees.
• Excellent resistance to diseases. Watch for aphids, capsid bug, glasshouse red spider mite, and hydrangea scale
• Propagate by layering
• No regular pruning is needed. However, trimming may be required to keep this plant to the space available. Prune after flowering.
• Native to Japan and South Korea.
• May cause mild stomach upset if ingested, and contact with foliage may aggravate skin allergies. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.