Hydrangea barbara

Common Names

Climbing Hydrangea, Wood Vamp

Summary

Hydrangea barbara, commonly called Climbing Hydrangea or Woodvamp, is a woody, deciduous to semi-evergreen climbing vine native to the Southeastern United States. It climbs with aerial roots that cling to trees and walls and can form ground-covering mats from rootless shoots. Leaves are glossy dark green and opposite; inflorescences are terminal, flat-topped clusters of white, fragrant flowers that bloom on old wood in spring, with flowering often occurring in shade, and the plant can reach about 12–30 feet tall with a 1–3 foot spread.

It prefers evenly moist to wet, moderately acidic, rich soil and can grow in sun or partial shade, with best flowering in partial sun. It can be grown as a wall climber or ground cover, useful for vertical accents or screening, and can be propagated by softwood cuttings; cultivars include Barbara Ann and Vickie. It is hardy to USDA zones 5–9 and may be affected by powdery mildew, leaf spots, Botrytis, aphids, spider mites, and scale; and caution is advised due to high fire risk near structures.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

26.5-30 feet

Spread

59-98 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 6-8

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally partial sun to partial shade, tolerates full sun and full shade, does best with afternoon shade.

Soil Type

Moist to wet, fertile acidic loam with high organic matter.

Soil Drainage

Moist to wet soil that stays evenly moist throughout the growing season and tolerates occasional inundation

Soil pH

0-6.0, Moderately acidic

Bloom Color

White

Bloom Time

Spring and Summer

Foliage Color

Dark green, Green

Fall Foliage Color

Peach color in the fall

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Medium growth rate.

Seasons of Interest

Spring and Summer

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators