It clings easily to tree bark or other structures and is almost unlimited in its ability to climb, often reaching more than 50 feet in height. The glossy, dark green leaves provide the perfect backdrop to show off the blossoms. Another interesting feature of this plant is its exfoliating brown bark. The shaggy bark adds a great deal of interest in the winter making this a multi-season ornamental plant. As with most hydrangeas, climbing hydrangea prefers partial shade to full sun with a moist, fertile, well-drained soil.
Plants are often slow to establish, taking a couple of years before vigorous growth begins.
Support also will be needed as the plants become established and to direct growth. Give this one plenty of room and watch it grow. Bigleaf hydrangeas bloom on the previous season's growth. Unfortunately in Iowa they often die back to the ground in the winter. As a result, they seldom bloom.