Decumaria barbara — an easy houseplant, prefers partial sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Decumaria barbara

Decumaria Barbara

Updated · 22 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Decumaria barbara, commonly called climbing hydrangea or woodvamp, is a species plant in the Hydrangea family. It is native to southeastern United States, where it is widespread. Its typical natural habitat is wet bottomland forest, although it is also found in rich mesic forests in the Appalachian Mountains.Decumaria barbara is a high-climbing woody vine. It has adventitious roots and glossy, opposite leaves. It produces small white flowers in late spring and early summer.The only other member of this genus is Decumaria sinensis, of central China.

A note from PlantMom

Hydrangea barbara is resistant to many diseases and usually does not develop health problems. As for care, this species is fairly low-maintenance. Planted outdoors, it needs only light watering, and larger specimens typically do not require pruning. Smaller specimens, however, should be trimmed after they finish blooming. Hydrangea barbarat is appropriate for anyone with an outdoor area, like a garden or a deck, and does not demand extensive gardening experience.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Decumaria Barbara.

Light

Hydrangea barbara naturally occurs in habitats like forest understories and rocky areas, where it grows in natural shade. It prefers partial sun but can tolerate full sun or full shade, illustrating its adaptable and hardy character.

Temperature

Hydrangea barbara is highly adaptable to a range of climate conditions, from scorching summers to cold winters. However, it still has an optimal temperature range for growth. When temperatures become too high, the plant is susceptible to heat and humidity stress, which can lead to its death. In areas where temperatures approach the lower limit of its cold tolerance, it is important to provide insulation to protect the plant.

Fertilizer

Fertilize your Hydrangea barbara in early spring to encourage healthy growth. Regular feeding improves overall health, leading to vigorous growth, better resilience to difficult conditions, and increased resistance to disease and pests. Keep to a consistent fertilization schedule for your Hydrangea barbara to sustain vibrant, deep-colored foliage and a lush appearance.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Shrub
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Decumaria
Family
Hydrangeaceae
Hardiness Zone
6-9
Mature Height
3.66 m to 10.97 m
Mature Spread
2.44 m
Leaf Color
Forest Green, Dark Green
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
Pink, White, Blue
Flower Size
2.54 cm
Bloom Time
Summer
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Fall
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Climbing-hydrangea en Wood-vamp
PLATES
Decumaria barbara leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Decumaria barbara leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Decumaria barbara bark
PLATE 03 · bark
Decumaria barbara bark
PLATE 04 · bark
Decumaria barbara habit
PLATE 05 · habit
Decumaria barbara habit
PLATE 06 · habit