Vines
Hydrangea petiolaris
Climbing hydrangea
Also known as: Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris
A woody climbing hydrangea with heart-shaped leaves, white lacecap flower clusters and peeling bark. It begins slowly, then can cover a large wall or mature tree by clinging with aerial rootlets. Prune only after flowering, when necessary; do not cut heavily into old wood.
At a glance
- Sun
- Part shade to shade
- Mature size
- 30–60 ft. with support tall × 5–6 ft. wide
- Water
- Moist, well-drained soil
- Hardiness
- USDA zones 4–8
- Bloom
- White lacecaps; late spring to early summer
Sizes & prices
- #5Climbing Hydrangea$39.99
Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.
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Resistance & tolerances
- Drought
- Water during establishment and prolonged dry spells.
- Wet soil
- Prefers moist but well-drained soil.
Seasonal interest
- Bloom
- White lacecap flowers in late spring to early summer.
- Foliage
- Deciduous; exfoliating bark adds winter texture.
Growing & care
- Support
- Clings by aerial rootlets; use a sound masonry wall or sturdy tree
- Attachment
- Aerial rootlets cling to masonry and bark; verify the surface can bear the mature weight.
Allow several years to establish before expecting much bloom. Prune after flowering if size control is needed; avoid fragile siding or weak structures.
Sources & photo credits
Photo: Dominicus Johannes Bergsma · CC BY-SA 3.0
Reviewed September 25, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.