About
A deciduous, mound-forming shrub to 2m tall with deeply-lobed, large mid to dark green leaves which are noted for their spectacular autumn colour turning from rich pink to deep crimson and purple. Large, upright, conical flower panicles appear from mid summer to autumn, composed of white ray florets, tinged pink as the flowers age in autumn.
About the genus
Hydrangea can be deciduous or evergreen shrubs, or self-clinging climbers, with flowers in clusters usually comprising both small fertile and more showy sterile flowers; often good autumn colour
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy, Spreading branched
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens
ToxicitySkin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets (dogs, cats): Harmful if eaten. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any moist but well-drained soil in partial shade or grow in sun if soil remains reliably moist. Improve chalky soils with organic matter to support good growth. See shrubby hydrangea cultivation for further advice
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings in early summer and hardwood cuttings in winter
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, capsid bug, hydrangea scale and vine weevils
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to a leaf spot, grey moulds, powdery mildews and honey fungus