Hydrangea macrophylla: Bigleaf Hydrangea with Mophead and Lacecap Forms

Hydrangea macrophylla (bigleaf hydrangea) is one of the most widely recognized hydrangea species, boasting numerous cultivars. It is divided into two groups: Hortensias (mopheads) with globe-shaped flowers composed of large male flowers, and Lacecaps with flattened flower heads featuring central female blossoms ringed by larger male blossoms.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Lacy, horizontal blossoms and large globes of flowers in rich colors.

Care

Grow in moist, well-drained soil in sun to partial shade. Provide shelter from drying winds. These hydrangeas flower on previous season's wood; maintain by cutting back just to the first pair of buds beneath the old flower in spring.

Propagation

Sow seed in a cold frame in spring; take softwood cuttings in early summer, hardwood cuttings in winter.

Problems

Gray mold, slugs, powdery mildew, rust, ringspot virus, leaf spots.

Overview

• Height: 3–6 ft.
• Spread: 6–10 ft.
• Growth Habit: Clumps
• Growth Pace: Moderate Grower
• Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Moisture: Medium Moisture
• Maintenance: Low
• Characteristics: Showy Flowers, Showy Seed Heads
• Bloom Time: Fall, Summer
• Flower Color: Blue, Pink, Purple, Red, White
• Uses: Beds and Borders, Container, Cut Flower, Dried Flower
• Style: Cottage Garden
• Seasonal Interest: Summer Interest
• Tolerance: Frost Tolerant
• Type: Shrubs