A tough and reliable climber, this self-clinging hydrangea is ideal for covering north-facing walls and fences where other plants find challenging.

Its dark green, broadly oval leaves create a dense backdrop, turning golden yellow in autumn before falling to reveal attractive peeling bark. In late spring and early summer, large, lacy white flowerheads up to 20cm (8in) across appear, attracting pollinators.

Although slow to establish, once settled, it grows vigorously and requires little maintenance beyond occasional pruning to control its spread. Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit, highlighting its exceptional garden performance.