Overview

Hydrangea aspera 'Hot Chocolate' is a deciduous shrub in the genus Hydrangea, part of the Hydrangeaceae family. It typically grows around 4.0 m tall. Hydrangea aspera 'Hot Chocolate' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. It is native to Himalayas, southern China and Taiwan.

About

Hydrangea aspera is a species of flowering plant in the family Hydrangeaceae native to dense forests in the region between the Himalayas, across southern China, to Taiwan. It is a large, erect deciduous shrub growing to 3 m (10 ft) tall and wide, with broadly oval leaves and dense branches.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Hydrangea aspera

About the genus

Hydrangea is a genus of more than 70 species of flowering plants native to Asia and the Americas. Hydrangea is also used as the common name for the genus; some are also often called hortensia. The genus was first described from Virginia in North America, but by far the greatest species diversity is in eastern Asia, notably China, Korea, and Japan.

Wikipedia contributors, "Hydrangea", CC BY-SA 4.0Hydrangea

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Hydrangea

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil moisture
Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Hydrangea aspera 'Hot Chocolate' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Deciduous shrub
Height
4.0 m
Native to
Himalayas, southern China, Taiwan

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Hydrangea aspera 'Hot Chocolate'?

Hydrangea aspera 'Hot Chocolate' prefers full sun.

What soil does Hydrangea aspera 'Hot Chocolate' need?

Hydrangea aspera 'Hot Chocolate' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.

How big does Hydrangea aspera 'Hot Chocolate' grow?

Hydrangea aspera 'Hot Chocolate' reaches a height of 4.0 m.

Is Hydrangea aspera 'Hot Chocolate' hardy in the UK?

Hydrangea aspera 'Hot Chocolate' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

More in the Hydrangea genus

Browse all Hydrangea