It’s not often that we see Hydrangea seemannii offered for sale, however it is available and it does have a number of unique characteristics that make it well worth seeking out.
If you have never considered an evergreen climbing hydrangea, then Hydrangea seemannii is the one to look for. This unusual climbing plant attaches itself using aerial roots, allowing it to climb fences, walls or wind its way up through other plants.
Hydrangea seemannii Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Hydrangea seemannii |
| Plant Type | Evergreen climbing hydrangea |
| Height | 6–10 metres |
| Spread | 4–5 metres |
| Flowers | Creamy white lacecap flowers |
| Flowering Season | Spring to summer |
| Light | Shade to partial sun |
| Soil | Moist, humus rich, well drained |
Unlike many vigorous climbers it is not overly aggressive, yet it will eventually form a substantial plant. The large serrated foliage is glossy and deep green, providing year-round coverage, while the pretty lacecap flowers appear from spring through summer.
The blooms are creamy white, often with soft green tinges, and stand out beautifully against the dark foliage.
Another useful feature is that Hydrangea seemannii can grow as either a climber or a shrub. If planted without support it will form a bushy plant, however when provided with a fence, wall or climbing frame it will climb steadily using aerial roots.
Originally native to Mexico, Hydrangea seemannii is still considered a rare climbing hydrangea, but one that gardeners value for covering walls, fences and other vertical spaces with lush evergreen foliage.
Is Hydrangea seemannii Fast Growing?
Hydrangea seemannii is slow growing to establish, but once settled it becomes a vigorous evergreen climber.
Over time it can cover sheds, fences and shady house walls, bringing greenery and seasonal flowers to areas where many other plants struggle.
A mature plant can reach around 6–10 metres in height and several metres in width.
What Makes Hydrangea seemannii Unique?
Hydrangea seemannii stands out for a few reasons.
It is evergreen, so it keeps its foliage through winter and provides year-round screening.
It also climbs using self-clinging aerial roots, which means it can attach itself to walls and fences without the need for a trellis.
Another advantage is that it tends to grow upward rather than spreading too widely, making it useful where vertical coverage is needed.
Where to Plant Hydrangea seemannii
Hydrangea seemannii is fairly adaptable and can be grown in:
- Full shade
- Partial shade
- Filtered sun
However, like most hydrangeas, it performs best in a position protected from hot afternoon sun and drying winds.
The soil should be rich, fertile, moist and well drained, and plants benefit from protection against severe frost in colder climates.
How to Grow Hydrangea seemannii
Like most hydrangeas, Hydrangea seemannii performs best in humus rich soil with a cool root run.
When planting near a wall or fence, avoid planting directly at the base where the soil may be dry. To ensure good soil contact and adequate moisture, plant climbers at least 30 cm away from the structure, and preferably 45–60 cm away.
Once established it will attach itself and begin climbing naturally.
Growing Conditions
For healthy growth and flowering provide the following:
- Light
Light shade or partial shade. - Soil
Humus rich soil that drains well. - Water
Extra moisture during dry summers. - Mulch
Mulch around the base to maintain moisture and keep the roots cool. - Fertiliser
Feed in spring with a slow release organic fertiliser.
Size and Growth Habit
Hydrangea seemannii can grow to around:
- Height: 6–10 metres
- Spread: 4–5 metres
It is ideal for covering walls, fences, pergolas and old tree trunks while providing attractive evergreen foliage throughout the year.
Landscaping Uses
Hydrangea seemannii is often used as a lush evergreen screen or to soften hard structures in the garden.
It is particularly useful for:
- Covering walls and fences
- Growing over pergolas and arches
- Climbing old tree trunks
- Hiding sheds or outbuildings
- Adding greenery to shady areas
Even when not in flower the glossy foliage provides structure and texture in the garden.
Hydrangea seemannii as an Evergreen Climber
Hydrangea seemannii is one of the few evergreen climbing hydrangeas available to gardeners. Unlike the common deciduous climbing hydrangea, it retains its glossy foliage throughout the year, making it particularly useful for covering walls, fences and shaded structures where year-round greenery is desired.
Hydrangea seemannii vs Climbing Hydrangea
Many gardeners are familiar with the common climbing hydrangea (Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris), however Hydrangea seemannii differs in one important way – it is evergreen. This means it provides foliage and screening throughout the year, making it especially useful in shaded gardens.
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Available for sale from the following growers
125 Palmer Rd Jindivick 3818
Open Thursday - Sunday 10am - 4pm
Specialising in growing and selling Rare and Unusual Trees, shrubs Perennials Bulbs and Climbers, a unique nursery with amazing stock.
www.muskersbroughtonhall.com.au