Self-clinging deciduous East Asian climber with rounded leaves and broad flat heads of small fertile flowers ringed by larger sterile florets in early summer. The principal climber for north-facing walls.
Hardiness ratings
| System | Rating | Temperature range | How to read it |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDA hardiness zone | Zone 4–8 | −34.4 °C to −6.7 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| RHS hardiness rating | H7 | down to −20 °C | Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance |
| Canadian plant hardiness zone | Zone 4–8 | −29 °C to −1 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| Australian (ANBG) zone | Zone 2–5 | −10 °C to 10 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
Growing notes
- Plant against north-facing walls and shaded fences — succeeds where most flowering climbers fail, eventually 10 m or more
- Self-clinging with aerial rootlets — needs no support, but slow to start (3–5 years before significant climbing)
- Distinct from the shrubby hydrangeas already in the database — H. anomala is the true climbing species
- Cinnamon-coloured exfoliating bark provides secondary winter interest on mature stems
Pet caution: Climbing hydrangea is listed as potentially harmful to cats and/or dogs. Keep pets from grazing on it, and contact a vet if you suspect your animal has eaten some.
Categories
Related plants
Cross-check Climbing hydrangea against your zones