About
A woody, deciduous, self-clinging climber with glossy, dark green leaves and clusters of small, fluffy, white flowers in summer.
About the genus
Hydrangea can be deciduous or evergreen shrubs, or self-clinging climbers, with flowers in clusters usually comprising both small fertile and more showy sterile flowers; often good autumn colour
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeClimber Wall Shrub
HabitClimbing
FoliageDeciduous
Height8-12 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden
Native toSE USA
ToxicitySkin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets (dogs, cats): Harmful if eaten. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow on a wall, or as ground cover. Requires reasonably fertile, preferably loamy, well-drained soil in sun or partial shade, sheltered from cold winds and frost
PruningPruning group 13
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer or early autumn
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, capsid bug, hydrangea scale and vine weevil
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to a leaf spot, powdery mildews, grey moulds (Botrytis) and honey fungus (rarely)