Yellow-veined Hydrangea

A rare and beautiful alternative to the more common climbing hydrangeas, Hydrangea xanthoneura is a deciduous, woody climber that uses aerial roots to cling to surfaces. It is native to China and thrives in the cool, temperate climate of the UK. It produces large, flattened lacecap flower heads in midsummer, consisting of small cream fertile flowers surrounded by larger white sterile bracts. The leaves are substantial, bright green with prominent veins, turning yellow in the autumn. It is exceptionally vigorous once established and can reach heights of over 10 metres, making it perfect for covering large walls or old trees. It is fully hardy (H5) and performing excellently in north-facing or shaded positions where other climbers might struggle. It requires little maintenance other than occasional pruning to keep it within bounds. It prefers a moist, humus-rich soil and should not be allowed to dry out during the summer.

Sun: Partial shade to full shade.

Soil: Moist, well-drained, acidic to neutral soil.

Hardiness: H5 — down to −15°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul.