Hydrangea macrophylla 'Nikko Blue': Vigorous Bigleaf Hydrangea with Rich Blue Flowers

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Nikko Blue' is a well-loved, vigorous cultivar with large, rounded flower heads of a rich, gorgeous blue.

Noteworthy Characteristics

This is one of the most widely recognized species of hydrangeas, and boasts a plentiful number of cultivars. The species is divided into two groups: the Hortensias (or "mopheads") have globe-shaped flowers made up of large male flowers, and the Lacecaps have flattened flower heads, with central, female blossoms ringed in larger, male blossoms.

Care

'Nikko Blue' flowers on the previous season's wood; cut back to the first pair of buds beneath the old flower in spring. Grow in moist, well-drained soil in sun to partial shade. Provide shelter from drying winds.

Propagation

Sow seed in 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: Summer
• Flower Color: Blue
• Uses: Beds and Borders, Container, Cut Flower
• Style: Cottage Garden
• Seasonal Interest: Summer Interest
• Tolerance: Frost Tolerant
• Type: Shrubs