Climbing Hydrangea

February 10, 2012

Entry Arbor with Climbing Hydrangea

The open arbor design we created for this project in Deephaven, Minnesota provided space for climbing hydrangea, which we planted at the base of all but two of the posts. Climbing hydrangea can be planted in zones 4-8 and are a self climbing woody vines that do not need any supports to grow upwards. They can reach 60 to 80 in length and can easily be pruned to keep smaller if desired. Some plant experts believe there is no better climbing vine. It has masses of 6-8 inch flower heads in early to midsummer, which can be cut and used for flower arrangements. The leaves of this vine turn a pretty shade of yellow in the fall and will typically last for several weeks before dropping. The cinnamon bark is also pretty and clear to see during the winter months. The three dimensional nature of this climber means that it is not a good choice for tight spaces. This climbing vine is long lived and is a great legacy plant and truly a four season beauty.

We used a Climbing Hydrangea variety from Bachman’s, “Hydrangea anomala subsp. Petiolaris. This woody vine climbs by aerial rootlets. These rootlets are little hair like stems that stick to cement, brick, wood and even metals. You should be aware that Climbing Hydrangea rootlets can create maintenance issues with mortar joints over time. The leaves are oval glossy green that are accented by the large white flower clusters. It is slow growing until established and requires rich, moist, well drained soil.

Posted in Arbors and Pergolas, Landscape, Plant Materials, Plants for Special Conditions, Vines