We believe these were planted in the early to mid 1960’s. Originally Ed had four of them, but one was removed a while ago. Visitors to the garden often wonder if this vigorous climber will hurt the host trees (Doug firs), the way English ivy does, and we tell them no. Being deciduous, the hydrangea won’t create the ‘sail effect’ that ivy does-which helps bring trees down in violent windstorms. Newer selections have better flowers (larger), but the main attraction for us is the clear yellow autumn color and seeing the sinuous trunks, snaking up the trees, in the winter. Be aware that this vine is slow to establish, so have patience!