How to Grow Climbing Hydrangea
Hydrangea petiolaris
Climbing hydrangea is a self-clinging deciduous climber reaching 12-15m, perfect for shady north-facing walls where few other climbers thrive. It attaches via aerial roots like ivy and needs no additional support once established. Plant in moist, humus-rich soil and be patient: it is notoriously slow for the first 2-3 years, then grows vigorously. Flat white lacecap flowers appear in June-July on old wood. Prune only after flowering if needed. Attractive peeling bark gives winter interest. Extremely hardy to -30C.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Spring with a balanced fertiliser once established. Young plants benefit from a second feed in early summer.
Watch For
- Vine weevil
- Aphids on young growth
- Honey fungus
- Leaf spot
Companions
Hostas, Ferns, Hellebores, Foxgloves
Pet Safety
Care Requirements
Light
Full shade to partial shade; ideal for north walls
Thrives in full shade to partial shade. One of the best climbers for a north-facing wall. Tolerates east-facing walls well. Flowers more freely with some morning sun but performs admirably in deep shade.
Watering
Keep moist during establishment; drought tolerant once mature
Keep soil consistently moist, especially during establishment (first 2-3 years). Once mature, reasonably drought tolerant but performs best with regular moisture. Mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing
Balanced spring feed; extra feed for young plants
Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring once established. Young plants benefit from a second feed in early summer to support root development. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds which promote leaf growth over flowers.
Pruning
Minimal; only after flowering to control size
Minimal pruning needed. Flowers on old wood, so only prune after flowering in late summer to remove wayward shoots or limit spread. Avoid hard pruning which removes next year's flower buds. Can be renovated by cutting back hard but will take 2-3 years to flower again.
Mulching
Annual compost mulch; important during establishment
Mulch annually with compost or leaf mould to retain moisture and feed the soil. Keep mulch away from the stem base to prevent rot. Particularly important in the first few years during establishment.
Growing Tips
Be patient with establishment
This plant does nothing for the first 2-3 years while establishing its root system. Do not be tempted to dig it up. Once established, it grows vigorously and will cover a large wall.
Prune lightly after flowering
Climbing hydrangea flowers on old wood. Only prune after flowering to remove wayward shoots or limit spread. Hard pruning removes next year's flowers.
Perfect for north walls
One of the best climbers for a shady north-facing wall. Also excellent on east-facing walls or as groundcover under trees.
Consider the wall surface
Once established, aerial roots grip firmly. Avoid planting against walls you may need to repaint or repair, as removing the plant will damage render.
