Herttahortensia - Schizophragma integrifolia

Schizophragma integrifolium, also known as the Chinese climbing Hydrangea, is a vigorous woody climber with aerial roots reaching up to 8–10m. It produces cream-white terminal inflorescences in late spring and early summer, and is one of the few climbing plants that thrive in shade.

Belonging to the Hydrangeaceae family and native to China, this climbing shrub can reach 8m in height with a spread of 2.50m and fairly rapid growth. From 3 years old, it attaches itself using climbing and aerial roots. Flowering occurs in June–July over at least 3 weeks, with small sterile flowers surrounded by large cream-white bracts on flat corymbs measuring 25cm in diameter. Flowering may take 3 to 4 years to appear. Foliage is deciduous, with dark green, heart-shaped leaves of 10–20cm, opposite and sometimes toothed.

Schizophragma integrifolium has medium hardiness and will struggle below -15°C. It dislikes dry or chalky soils; add organic matter if needed to maintain moisture. Plant against a support such as a large tree trunk or shaded wall. It prefers a shaded, protected position but requires light to flower, with morning sun being ideal. It can also trail along the ground, brightening neglected dark areas.