Schizophragma hydrangeoides Windmills

Schizophragma Windmills is a delightful representative of the climbing hydrangea family. All are vines that are very useful for brightening up dark and often neglected places. Equipped with aerial roots, it firmly clings to its support, be it a tree or a wall, reaching heights of up to 5m (16ft). It also captivates with its remarkably airy spring flowering in large terminal inflorescences, delicate as lace, reminiscent of certain white hydrangeas. This new variety of great delicacy undoubtedly deserves to be more widely used in our gardens.

Schizophragma Windmills belongs to the Hydrangeaceae family. It is derived from Schizophragma integrifolium and hydrangeoides. These climbing plants, similar to climbing hydrangeas, originate from wooded and humid regions of Asia, China, the Himalayas, Japan, and Korea.

The 'Windmills' variety has been selected for its moderate growth and its unusual flowering. It will reach an average height of 4m (13ft) and spread over 2m (7ft), with fairly rapid growth. Except for young plants under 3 years old, the Schizophragma attaches itself using climbing roots with its aerial roots. A long flowering period of at least 3 weeks occurs in June-July, with flowers produced mainly at the ends of the stems. These are airy, creamy white inflorescences with a diameter of 30cm (12in) composed of a centre of small bunches of tiny plume-like fertile flowers surrounded by large trailing bracts, resembling long-petioled leaves. The flowering is extraordinary but sometimes takes 3 to 4 years to appear. The foliage is deciduous with deep green, large heart-shaped leaves, 10 to 20cm (4 to 8in) long and opposite, which may have a toothed margin.

The Schizophragma has moderate hardiness and will struggle to survive below -15°C (5°F). Schizophragma does not like overly dry or poor soils, nor limestone. If necessary, add organic matter to maintain moisture (the soil should never completely dry out, otherwise it will be impossible to rehydrate) and lower the pH of your soil. Install it against a support, such as the trunk of a large tree or a shady wall. While it prefers a shaded and protected position, it needs light to flower properly, with morning sun being ideal. This vine can also run along the ground, like ivy, to brighten up neglected and dark areas of the garden.