Barbara Ann Climbing Hydrangea

Light Needs

Partial Sun to Full Sun

(At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

30-40 Feet

Mature Spread

30-40 Feet

Growing Zones

5 to 9

Turn blank walls, fences, and arbors into living architecture with Barbara Ann Climbing Hydrangea. Lush, heart-shaped foliage cloaks sturdy vines, then in late spring to early summer it covers itself in frothy white lacecap blooms that glow in shade. As the plant matures, cinnamon-colored, peeling bark adds winter interest, so you get something beautiful to look at in every season. It’s a reliable, low-maintenance climber that clings on its own and brings pollinators to shaded spaces where few flowering vines thrive.

Barbara Ann is happiest in part shade to shade with evenly moist, well-drained soil. Give new plants consistent water their first year while they root in; once established, they’re quite tolerant of typical garden conditions. Provide a sturdy support (trellis, fence, pergola, or masonry) and guide young stems until the aerial rootlets take hold. Growth is often slow the first season or two, then steadily vigorous. Prune lightly right after flowering, as this hydrangea blooms on old wood.

Barbara Ann Climbing Hydrangea Specs

• Light: part shade to shade (morning sun/afternoon shade is ideal)

• Bloom: late spring to early summer; flat, fragrant white lacecaps

• Height/Spread: climbs 20–40+ ft over time; spread depends on support and training

• Soil: rich, well-drained; keep evenly moist, mulch to cool roots

• Spacing: 4–6 ft apart along walls or fences

• Features: self-clinging aerial rootlets, peeling winter bark, pollinator friendly

• Care: prune right after bloom; avoid hard pruning in late summer/fall

• Note: aerial roots can mark painted surfaces—use a trellis or wires if that’s a concern

Barbara Ann Climbing Hydrangea FAQs

Where will Barbara Ann grow best?

Choose a location with part shade to shade and moist, well-drained soil. Morning sun is fine; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates to keep foliage lush and prevent scorch.

How do I plant and support it?

Set the plant at the same depth it grew in the pot, backfill with amended soil, water deeply, and mulch. Install a strong support (trellis, fence, pergola, or training wires on masonry) and tie young shoots loosely until they attach on their own.

How much water and fertilizer does it need?

Keep soil evenly moist while establishing, then water during dry spells. A light application of balanced, slow-release shrub fertilizer in early spring is plenty; over-fertilizing can reduce flowering.

When and how should I prune?

Prune right after bloom to shape and remove dead or crossing wood. Avoid heavy pruning in late summer or fall because flower buds for next year form on old wood.

Will it damage my wall or paint?

Aerial rootlets can leave marks on painted or delicate surfaces. If that’s a concern, grow it on a freestanding trellis or use stainless steel training wires a few inches off the wall so the plant doesn’t attach directly.

Can it be grown in a container?

Yes, with a large, heavy pot and a sturdy trellis. Use high-quality potting mix, water more frequently than in-ground plants, and anchor the support securely so it can handle the vine’s mature weight.