Hydrangea macrophylla 'Blue Wave' (Bigleaf Hydrangea 'Blue Wave') — Shrub, Climber

Overview

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Blue Wave' is a shrub, climber deciduous shrub in the genus Hydrangea, part of the Hydrangeaceae family, with deciduous, evergreen (in mild climates) foliage. It typically grows around 3.0 m tall. Hydrangea macrophylla 'Blue Wave' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and acidic to neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include garden borders, hedging and ornamental. It is native to Japan.

About

Hydrangea macrophylla is a species of flowering plant in the family Hydrangeaceae, native and endemic to Japan. It is a deciduous shrub growing to 3 m (10 ft) tall by 2.5 m (8 ft) or more broad with large heads of pink or blue flowers in summer and autumn.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Hydrangea macrophylla

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 4.0 — Hydrangea

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Hydrangea

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil pH: acidic to neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Aspect: East-facing, North-facing, West-facing
Exposure: full sun to partial shade
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Blue Wave' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: deciduous shrub
Habit: Shrub, Climber
Foliage: Deciduous, Evergreen (in mild climates)
Height: 3.0 m
Suggested uses: garden borders, hedging, ornamental
Native to: Japan

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Hydrangea macrophylla 'Blue Wave'

Cultivation: Prefers moist, well-drained soil; benefits from mulching; avoid harsh afternoon sun in hot climates
Pruning: Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage blooms next season
Propagation: softwood cuttings, layering
Pest resistance: Generally pest-free
Disease resistance: Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Hydrangea macrophylla 'Blue Wave'?

Prefers moist, well-drained soil; benefits from mulching; avoid harsh afternoon sun in hot climates.

Where is the best place to plant Hydrangea macrophylla 'Blue Wave'?

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Blue Wave' prefers full sun. It suits full sun to partial shade positions.

What soil does Hydrangea macrophylla 'Blue Wave' need?

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Blue Wave' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It prefers acidic to neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Hydrangea macrophylla 'Blue Wave'?

Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage blooms next season.

How big does Hydrangea macrophylla 'Blue Wave' grow?

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Blue Wave' reaches a height of 3.0 m.

Is Hydrangea macrophylla 'Blue Wave' hardy in the UK?

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Blue Wave' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.

How do I propagate Hydrangea macrophylla 'Blue Wave'?

Softwood cuttings, layering.

More in the Hydrangea genus

Browse all Hydrangea →