Best climbing plants to add height and colour

Whether clinger, twiner or clamberer, the best climbing plants have the innate ability to clothe, screen or divide. All the while, they deliver a floral spectacle or scent the air without encroaching on valuable space. Their aerial lifestyles make them ideal for clothing and softening the boundaries of small gardens, particularly stark city courtyards encircled by masonry. We’ve put together some of our favourites into this list of the best outdoor plants that climb.

Climbers are the great transformers of vertical surfaces. Garden Answers expert Ian Hodgson says: "The method that climbers use to adhere or attach themselves profoundly determines their suitability for particular purposes and the methods used to attach them, so really get to know how they grow before buying. Combine this knowledge with an appreciation of the growing conditions they like, and you won’t go far wrong." Ian has helped us put our list together of these stunning outdoor plants. Renowned for their aesthetic beauty, they're cottagecore gardens personified.

Climbing plants, also known as vine plants or creepers, are fascinating, adding a unique dimension to gardens, landscapes, and indoor spaces. Similar to privacy screening plants that stretch tall and wide, climbers can offer natural privacy. Using their tendrils, twining stems, or adhesive roots to latch onto structures or other vegetation, they ascend vertical surfaces with ease and beauty. With their lush foliage, they soften the harsh lines from your unsightly garden walls, giving your outdoor space a natural, organic feel. They make a great alternative to hedge plants, too.

Best climbing plants at a glance

• Best climber for fast growth: Clematis montana var. montana - View Offer at Crocus
• Best climber for smaller gardens: Lonicera periclymenum - View Offer at Crocus
• Best climber for beginners: Parthenocissus tricuspidata "Boston Ivy" - View Offer at Thompson and Morgan
• Best climbing plant: Passiflora 'Purple Haze - View Offer at Thompson and Morgan

Why do we love climbing plants so much? Vertical gardening with climbers allows you to make the most of your available space while still enjoying a lush and green environment. When trained onto trellises, they can provide a beautiful addition to an area where you might relax with a comfy chair and a good book. Not only that, but they provide shelter and nesting sites for our feathered friends, making them great plants for birds and bees. Below, with the guidance of Ian, we've hand-picked our favourite creepers, sure to turn your garden into a whimsical haven.

Best Climbing Plants 2023

Climbers provide rapid height wherever needed.

Clematis

Clematis are among the most versatile both in size and situation.

Firstly, spring flowering types such as deciduous Clematis montana or evergreen C. armandii will achieve 6-9m (20-30 feet) and are good in sun or shade and don’t need annual pruning.

On the other hand, large-flowered summer varieties prefer moist soil in sun. Many will reach 1.8 - 4m (6-13ft) and will need cutting back in spring.

Another type to consider is small spring-flowering types such as Clematis alpina, which enjoy sun or shade up low walls or fences. Fluffy seed heads in autumn are a welcome bonus.

All clematis need a framework of horizontal wires or trellis on which to climb.

Honeysuckles

Climbers have their fragrant stars, equal to any daphne or viburnum.

Drape spring and early-summer flowering honeysuckles such as varieties of L. periclymenum or L. japonica around a sheltered sitting area or garden arbour and let their sweet aroma permeate the air.

Roses

Climbing roses are quintessential elements of a cottage or English country garden. Coming in an astonishing range of colours and with many delightfully fragrant they are ideal for a sunny spot such as an archway, arbour or wall.

Self-Clinging Climbers

Climbers that self-cling onto surfaces are extremely useful.

Apart from the vast range of ivies available, for autumn effect try Parthenocissus tricuspidaria which turns scarlet or dark-leaved P. henryana which looks good all year.

The blue-speckled berries of Ampelopsis brevipedunculata are an autumnal treat, while compact variety ‘Elegans’ has pink splashed foliage and is ideal for smaller spaces.

Planting Guide

Thanks to the Royal Horticultural Society, we have the ultimate planting guide for climbers to help us make the most of our gardens. Which is best for me - and when is best to plant them? All of these questions are answered below...

Climbing plants come in all shapes, sizes and styles, says the RHS - so, you're bound to find one that fits your lifestyle, location and garden best. Put simply, there are various factors to help you choose the best one:

Which Plant Is For Me?

Eventual Size - will come into play. For this, "bear in mind the amount of room you have available", recommends the RHS. Even though they grow vertically in nature, some climbers can be a little overwhelming and grow vigorously. For this, we've made sure to include a plant's eventual height and spread in our listings. Some are ideal for small spaces.

Colour and Fragrance - likely is influenced by aesthetics and overall preferences. With their lush foliage and colourful flowers, they create enchanting displays that change with the seasons. Plus, several climbing plants have medicinal or aromatic properties. Jasmine, for instance, is used in perfumes and aromatherapy. What scents do you like the most?

Style - differs from climber to climber. Climbing plants can complement various garden aesthetics and styles, enhancing the overall appeal of your outdoor space. For example, climbing roses are quintessential for the romantic and informal charm of a cottage garden, whereas Japanese Wisteria works well for a Japanese-inspired Zen garden.

More to Consider

Seasons of Interest - adds an exciting element. These versatile plants can transform the aesthetics of your surroundings throughout the year, creating a dynamic and ever-changing landscape. Some climbing plants exhibit seasonal interest year-round, whereas others will have their moment to shine during specific seasons in the year.

Evergreen or Deciduous - are the main two groups of climbers. Evergreen climbers maintain their foliage year-round, providing greenery and structure even in the winter months - even for privacy. On the other hand, deciduous climbers shed their leaves in the fall, revealing their structure and providing a dramatic display of changing colours in autumn.

Short-Lived or Long-Term - climber plants differ in their lifespan and growth characteristics. Short-lived climbers offer rapid growth and abundant blooms but may need frequent replanting. Long-term climbers grow more slowly but provide enduring beauty and structure, making them suitable for permanent landscaping features.

Planting...

When do I plant a climber?

The RHS says that climbers "are best planted in spring or autumn". If you're planning on re-vamping your springtime garden, choose "less hardy types... so they have plenty of time to settle in before winter arrives."

Where do I plant a climber?

Climbers should be planted 45cm (18 inches) from the base of a wall, says the RHS, as this allows "rain to reach the root zone." Plus, planting away from the wall keeps the roots happy, as the soil found around walls is usually "impoverished" and they won't be restricted by foundations or rubble, either. They're free to grow however they please - with your guidance. For a successful climber, the plant should be angled into the wall or fence.

Similarly, if you opt for a tree for your climber to creep up, the roots should be 50cm away from the tree base.

If you're considering which spot to choose, remember there are climbers for all situations and spaces - from sun to shade. Our advice is to assess your space and read the guidance before you buy. Otherwise, you will be disappointed. If you have a patio, you won't be missing out, as many types can be grown in large containers with lots of upkeep.

What soil is best for a climber?

Free-draining soil is preferred by climbers. The RHS recommend adding "plenty of garden compost, or leaf mould to the entire planting area to improve the soil structure." This will help with moisture, fertility and microorganisms. It's a straightforward process - and they settle in quickly, says the RHS in their climber planting guide.

Ongoing Care

Water - regularly for the first growing season, says the RHS. If you've potted your climbers, water will be required as the surface becomes dry. Don't forget that plants climbing against walls will need particular attention.

Feeding - can be used to boost flowering - with high potassium fertiliser.

Weeding - the ground around the creeper will prevent any competition for water.

Mulch - can prevent the soil during out and improve the structure, too. On this, the RHS says: "The mulch should cover the whole root zone of the plant, but not touch the stem, as this could cause rot."

Overwintering - will give some of your plants some extra protection during the colder months. The RHS says: "You can also provide additional insulation by laying a thick mulch over the root zone and wrapping them up before winter sets in."

Pruning and Training

Your new climbers will require "initial training and pruning at planting time, to encourage them to spread out to fill their allotted space and develop an attractive shape," says the RHS. This keeps your plants neat and tidy, as well as attractive and flowering well. However, some plants will have more specific requirements - so, research individually.

Climbing Plants FAQs

Which climbers can I plant in tricky places?

North-Facing Fence – Shady fences are no problem for climbing Hydrangea petiolaris. Other good choices include ivy and pyracantha. For larger spaces try Parthenocissus cultivars.

Garden Eyesore – A vigorous climber such as Clematis montana is ideal for hiding an ugly garage or disguising a rabbit hutch. Its pretty pink spring flowers are a picturesque bonus.

Summer Hotspot – In a sun-drenched, south-facing garden it’s nice to have some relief from the summer heat. Grow a climbing rose over a gazebo to create a fragrant focal point or dining area.

South-Facing Fence - Exploit a frost-free hot spot by planting a tender climber such as Passiflora caerulea (passionflower). Or, train a vine against a sun-warmed wall to help the fruits ripen.

Which climbers grow in the shade?

Do you have a shaded wall or fence facing north or east? You can cover up unsightly walls with a climber. Gardeners World says: "North and east-facing boundaries can be transformed by a surprising amount of attractive climbers. Some will do better on an east-facing boundary which should get sun for part of the day. Others will cope in full shade."

These can include Clematis, Roses, Ivy, Honeysuckle and Star Jasmine.

How to build a trellis for your climbing plants

To cut some costs, you could make your own trellis, which is the perfect environment for climbers.

This video from YouTube seems to have a cheap and easy trellis for us DIY novices out there to make...

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Piper Huxley is a Homes, Garden and Wellness Product Writer for Modern Gardens Magazine, an all-rounder. When she’s not writing about houseplants, she’s tending to her own growing collection…