Rough-Leaved Hydrangea 'Kawakamii': Wild Mountain Beauty

Bringing the untamed grace of mountain woodlands, Hydrangea aspera 'Kawakamii' (Rough-Leaved Hydrangea) offers a distinctly wild charm. This species cultivar features the characteristic fuzzy, lanceolate leaves and delicate lacecap flowers of its kind.

Woodland Gallery

Botanical Classification

Hydrangea aspera is native to the Himalayas and western China, growing as a large deciduous shrub 10-15 feet tall. 'Kawakamii' is a selected form noted for its particularly attractive foliage and flower heads. The lacecap inflorescences feature a ring of showy sterile florets surrounding tiny fertile flowers, typically in shades of pink, lavender, or blue depending on soil pH. The leaves are distinctively rough-textured and velvety.

Culture: part shade to dappled sun, moist well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Protect from hot afternoon sun. Prune lightly after flowering. This species is less cold-hardy than H. macrophylla (zone 7-9). 'Kawakamii' brings a touch of Himalayan wilderness to the shade garden.