Hydrangea macrophylla 'McKay' — Shrubby, climbing

Overview

Hydrangea macrophylla 'McKay' is a shrubby, climbing shrubs in the genus Hydrangea, part of the Hydrangeaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Hydrangea macrophylla 'McKay' grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include borders, containers and climbing walls.

About

Hydrangea macrophylla 'McKay' is a deciduous shrub or climbing plant belonging to the Hydrangea genus, known for its clustered flowers comprising both fertile and ornamental blooms. This cultivar thrives in partial shade, ideally on north- or east-facing, sheltered sites with moist but well-drained loam soil of neutral pH. Suitable for borders, containers, and climbing walls, it offers seasonal interest in summer and autumn. It is hardy in the UK (H6) and benefits from annual mulching with well-rotted organic matter. Propagation can be achieved through softwood, semi-ripe, or hardwood cuttings.

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: Partial shade
Soil type: Loam
Soil pH: Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Aspect: North-facing, East-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H6

Plant details

Hydrangea macrophylla 'McKay' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Shrubs
Habit: Shrubby, climbing
Foliage: Deciduous
Suggested uses: Borders, containers, climbing walls

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Hydrangea macrophylla 'McKay'

Propagation: Softwood cuttings, semi-ripe cuttings, hardwood cuttings
Pest resistance: Aphids, capsid bug, hydrangea scale, vine weevil
Disease resistance: Leaf spot, powdery mildew, grey mould, honey fungus

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Hydrangea macrophylla 'McKay'?

Hydrangea macrophylla 'McKay' prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Hydrangea macrophylla 'McKay' need?

Hydrangea macrophylla 'McKay' grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Hydrangea macrophylla 'McKay' hardy in the UK?

Hydrangea macrophylla 'McKay' has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.

How do I propagate Hydrangea macrophylla 'McKay'?

Softwood cuttings, semi-ripe cuttings, hardwood cuttings.

More in the Hydrangea genus

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