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Description
Hydrangea Anomala, also known as the climbing hydrangea, is a deciduous vine that belongs to the family Hydrangeaceae. It is native to the woodlands of Japan, Korea, and the Himalayas. This plant can grow up to 80 feet tall and 6 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for covering walls or trellises.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Hydrangeaceae |
| Genus | Hydrangea |
Appearance
The climbing hydrangea has dark green, glossy leaves that turn yellow in the fall. The plant produces fragrant, white flowers in the summer that grow in flat-topped clusters. The blooms can reach up to 8 inches in diameter and add a lovely touch to any garden. The bark of the climbing hydrangea is reddish-brown and peels off in thin strips.
Care Guide
Hydrangea Anomala is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in well-draining, moist soil. It prefers partial shade to full sun, but it can tolerate a range of light conditions. The plant can survive in hardiness zones 4-8. Here are some tips for taking care of your climbing hydrangea:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant the climbing hydrangea in well-draining, moist soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun, but it can tolerate a range of light conditions.
- Hardiness Zones: The climbing hydrangea can survive in hardiness zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The climbing hydrangea is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to look out for:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and cause the plant to wilt. Use insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
Habitat
Hydrangea Anomala is native to Japan, Korea, and the Himalayas. It grows in the understory of deciduous forests and on rocky cliffs. The plant can attach itself to trees and rocks using aerial roots.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the climbing hydrangea be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the climbing hydrangea can be grown in a container, but it will need a trellis or support to climb on.
Q: Does the climbing hydrangea need pruning?
A: The climbing hydrangea does not need pruning, but you can remove any dead or damaged branches in the spring.
Q: How often should I fertilize my climbing hydrangea?
A: Fertilize the climbing hydrangea once a year in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can the climbing hydrangea tolerate full sun?
A: Yes, the climbing hydrangea can tolerate full sun, but it prefers partial shade.
Related Plants
- Hydrangea Macrophylla
- Hydrangea Paniculata
- Hydrangea Quercifolia
References
- “Climbing Hydrangea: How to Grow and Care for Hydrangea Anomala.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/vines/hydrangea-vine/caring-for-climbing-hydrangea-vines.htm.
- “Hydrangea Anomala.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c305.
