Bigleaf Hydrangea 'Kardinal': Cardinal of the Lacecaps

Named for the high church official, 'Kardinal' is a Bigleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla) lacecap cultivar of cardinal dignity and color. This variety brings ecclesiastical elegance to the shade garden.

Ecclesiastical Gallery

Botanical Profile

'Kardinal' is a lacecap hydrangea noted for its particularly rich, deep coloration—often a strong pink to red in neutral soil, turning purple in acidic conditions. The flower heads are well-formed with a distinct ring of sterile florets. The plant grows 3-5 feet with an upright, dignified habit.

Culture: part shade, moist well-drained soil. Morning sun, afternoon shade. Acidic soil for deepest color. Mulch well. Prune after flowering. Hardy zones 6-9. 'Kardinal' presides over the shade garden with cardinal authority.