About
An evergreen, self-clinging climber, with glossy, serrated, fresh green leaves, bronzy when young. Large, golf ball-like flower buds are produed in mid-summer, opening to masses of frothy, creamy-white flowers reminiscent of shrubby lacecap hydrangeas.
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 shade, Full sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeClimber Wall Shrub
HabitClimbing
FoliageEvergreen
Height4-8 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens
Native toTaiwan
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 in moist but well-drained soil in partial shade or sun if the soil remains reliably moist and the roots are shaded. May take 5-7 years to flower and flowering will be reduced in heavy shade. See climbing hydrangea cultivation for more advice
PruningMinimal pruning requred
PropagationPropagate by layering
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, capsid bug and hydrangea scale
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to a leaf spot, powdery mildews, grey moulds (Botrytis) and honey fungus (rarely)