Climbing hydrangea varieties such as Hydrangea anomala, Hydrangea seemannii, and Hydrangea serratifolia can work perfectly to cover outbuildings or brighten up shady house walls. Hydrangea anomala subsp. Petiolaris is the most popular and well-known climbing hydrangea; however, Hydrangea seemannii and Hydrangea serratifolia are less known. Why? Keep reading.
Hi, I’m a horticultural consultant, here is all you must know about climbing hydrangea varieties. After reading my post, you can select your garden, yard, or landscape best. For example, Hydrangea anomala and Hydrangea serratifolia can grow in USDA zones 5-9, but Hydrangea seemannii has a tropical origin and is best in warm, humid climates with no freezing temperatures. Keep reading to learn all you need to select, plant, and care for climbing hydrangea varieties. You can read my other post “7 Cheaper Alternatives to Hydrangea“.
Most Popular Climbing Hydrangea Varieties: Hydrangea anomala
Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris, commonly known as the climbing hydrangea or Japanese climbing hydrangea, is a deciduous vine that offers a stunning display of white lacecap-style flowers in late spring and early summer.
Native to the woodlands of Japan, Korea, and Sakhalin Island in Russia, this versatile climber is a popular choice for gardens due to its self-clinging nature and ability to thrive in shady conditions.
Please read my other posts “what-plant-has-tiny-white-flowers” and “shrubs-with-large-clusters-of-white-flowers”.
Key Features to Identify Climbing Hydrangea
- Climbing Habit: This hydrangea is a vigorous climber, using aerial roots to attach itself to walls, fences, or other structures. It can reach heights of up to 30 feet (9 meters) when provided with adequate support.
- Foliage: The plant features dark green, heart-shaped leaves that turn yellow in autumn, adding a touch of seasonal interest.
- Flowers: The showy white flowers are arranged in large, flat-topped clusters known as lacecaps. They consist of a central core of small, fertile florets surrounded by larger, sterile florets.
- Growth Rate: While it may take a few years for the climbing hydrangea to establish itself, it will eventually grow at a moderate pace.
- Read my other post “Smal White Flower Plant Identification”.
How to Cultivation and Care for Climbing Hydrangea
Planting: Plant the climbing hydrangea in moist, well-drained soil in partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some sun, but the soil should remain consistently moist.
Support: Provide a sturdy support structure for the plant to climb, such as a trellis, fence, or wall.
Watering: Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Pruning: Pruning is optional and can be done in late winter or early spring to shape the plant or remove dead or damaged branches.
Fertilizing: Fertilize annually in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Why You Should Have a Climbing Hydrangea in Your Garden?
Privacy Screening: The climbing hydrangea can be used to create a natural privacy screen or living wall.
Vertical Gardening: It is ideal for vertical gardening and can be trained to cover a variety of structures.
Pollinator-Friendly: The flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Ornamental Value: The plant offers a beautiful and low-maintenance addition to any garden.
Evergreen Climbing Hydrangea Varieties: Hydrangea seemannii
Hydrangea seemannii, also known as the Panama hydrangea or mountain hydrangea, is a tropical species native to Central and South America, primarily found in Panama, Costa Rica, and Colombia. Unlike most hydrangeas, it is an evergreen shrub or small tree rather than a deciduous plant.
Key Features of Hydrangea seemannii
- Evergreen Foliage: This hydrangea boasts large, glossy, dark green leaves that remain on the plant year-round, providing a lush backdrop for its vibrant blooms.
- Flowers: The flowers are produced in large, showy clusters that can reach up to 12 inches (30 centimeters) in diameter. They are typically white or cream-colored, but can sometimes have a pinkish or purplish hue. The flowers are composed of numerous small florets, giving them a fluffy, lacecap appearance.
- Growth Habit: Hydrangea seemannii can grow to be a large shrub or small tree, reaching heights of up to 15 feet (4.5 meters) and a similar width. It has a spreading habit with long, arching branches.
Cultivation and Care Tips for Hydrangea seemannii
Planting: Plant Hydrangea seemannii in a sheltered location with ample sunlight. It prefers moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
Watering: Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilizing: Fertilize annually in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Pruning: Pruning is optional and can be done to shape the plant or remove dead or damaged branches.
Protection: In colder climates, Hydrangea seemannii may need protection from frost. Consider covering it with a frost blanket or moving it indoors during the winter months.
Why You Should Add Hydrangea seemannii to Your Yard?
Ornamental Value: The large, showy flowers and lush evergreen foliage make this hydrangea a beautiful addition to tropical gardens.
Shade: It can be used to provide shade in a garden or patio.
Pollinator-Friendly: The flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
A Low-Maintenance Climbing Hydrangea: Hydrangea serratifolia
Hydrangea serratifolia, also known as the saw-toothed hydrangea or mountain hydrangea, is a deciduous shrub native to Japan and Korea. It is a popular choice for gardens due to its showy flowers and adaptability to a variety of growing conditions.
Hydrangea serratifolia Identification
- Deciduous Foliage: The plant features large, ovate leaves with serrated edges, giving it its common name. The leaves turn a vibrant yellow or orange in autumn, adding a splash of color to the garden.
- Flowers: The flowers are produced in large, flat-topped clusters known as lacecaps. They are typically white or pale pink, but can sometimes have a bluish or purplish hue. The flowers are composed of numerous small florets, giving them a fluffy, lacecap appearance.
- Growth Habit: Hydrangea serratifolia can grow to be a large shrub, reaching heights of up to 8 feet (2.4 meters) and a similar width. It has a spreading habit with arching branches.
Caring Tips for Hydrangea serratifolia
Planting: Plant Hydrangea serratifolia in partial shade to full shade. It prefers moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
Watering: Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilizing: Fertilize annually in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Pruning: Pruning is optional and can be done in late winter or early spring to shape the plant or remove dead or damaged branches.
Soil pH: The color of the flowers can be influenced by the soil pH. Acidic soil (pH below 7) tends to produce blue flowers, while alkaline soil (pH above 7) tends to produce pink flowers.
Benefits of Having Hydrangea serratifolia in Your Yard
Ornamental Value: The showy flowers and attractive foliage make Hydrangea serratifolia a beautiful addition to any garden.
Pollinator-Friendly: The flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Privacy Screening: It can be used to create a natural privacy screen or hedge.
Cut Flowers: The flowers can be cut and used in bouquets or arrangements.
Conclusion
I think climbing hydrangea Hydrangea anomala subsp. Petiolaris is a valuable asset for gardens of all sizes because of its striking appearance and its ability to thrive in challenging conditions. So, to add a greenery to your shady area, I think the Hydrangea anomala is sure to impress.
Although Hydrangea seemannii is not as widely cultivated as Hydrangea anomala because of its tropical origin, I’m sure this climbing hydrangea is a stunning plant that deserves more attention. I think Its tropical beauty and adaptability to warm climates can make it a valuable choice for gardeners in suitable regions.
And the end, the Hydrangea serratifolia is an evergreen low-maintenance climbing hydrangea that can offer a stunning view to your garden. Unlike Hydrangea seemannii, the adaptability of Hydrangea serratifolia to grow in various conditions and thrive in both sun and shade makes it a popular choice for your garden even if you are a beginner.
Elahe Rabiei
Hi, I’m Elaheh. My Academic major is plant protection, and houseplants are my expertise. As a houseplant lover, my house is full of indoor plants and it is my passion to take care of them. Hence, I’m here to share my knowledge and experience about growing healthy houseplants. I am also a plant protection advisor, so feel free to ask me any questions you may have.