About this product

Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris

Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris

10L Pot | Approx. 80–100cm Tall

Plant Highlights: Self-clinging deciduous climber • Elegant white lacecap flowers • Attractive heart-shaped foliage • Ideal for shady walls and fences • Year-round interest from bark and climbing stems

Overview

Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris, commonly known as the Climbing Hydrangea, is a vigorous, self-clinging deciduous climber prized for its ability to thrive on shaded walls, fences and mature trees. In early to mid-summer, it produces broad lacecap flower heads composed of tiny fertile flowers surrounded by larger white sterile florets, creating an elegant display against rich green foliage.

Its heart-shaped leaves provide a lush covering throughout the growing season before turning buttery yellow in autumn. During winter, the bare framework of climbing stems and attractive peeling brown bark provides architectural interest, ensuring the plant remains appealing throughout the year. Once established, it can reach 12–15m in height with a spread of approximately 4–8m.

Why We Love It

• One of the finest flowering climbers for shady positions.
• Elegant white lacecap flowers brighten walls and fences.
• Self-clinging habit reduces the need for permanent support.
• Attractive foliage, autumn colour and textured winter bark provide interest across the seasons.
• Excellent for wildlife, attracting bees and other pollinating insects.

Plant Details

Growing Guide

Position

Plant in partial shade or shade where this climber performs particularly well. It will also grow successfully in sunnier positions provided the soil remains consistently moist. Ideal for north- or east-facing walls, fences and mature trees.

Watering

Keep the soil evenly moist while the plant establishes. Once established, water during prolonged dry periods, particularly if growing in sunnier locations.

Soil

Grow in fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Avoid allowing the roots to sit in waterlogged ground.

Hardiness and Winter Care

Fully hardy throughout Ireland and the UK (RHS H5). Established plants require little winter care. Young plants may benefit from tying into supports until their aerial roots become established.

Maintenance

Pruning is usually minimal. Remove damaged, weak or overcrowded stems after flowering if required, and lightly trim to control size. Mature plants can be renovated more heavily if necessary.

Perfect For

• Shady walls.
• Garden fences.
• Mature trees.
• Woodland gardens.
• Cottage gardens.
• Wildlife-friendly planting.

Good to Know

The supplied 10L pot and 80–100cm height refer to the plant at the time of sale, not its mature size. Climbing Hydrangeas are often slow to establish during their first few years, but once settled they become vigorous, long-lived climbers that require very little support.

Product Information

• Supplied in a 10L nursery pot.
• Approximate supplied height: 80–100cm.
• Deciduous, self-clinging climber.
• White lacecap flowers in early to mid-summer.
• Ideal for walls, fences, mature trees and woodland gardens.
• Decorative pots and containers shown, if any, are not included.