Bigleaf Hydrangea 'Romance' (YouMe® Series): Double Mophead with Layered Petals

Bigleaf Hydrangea 'Romance': Double-Flowered Passion in the YouMe® Series

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Romance' (PP16613, cultivar name 'Youmenine'), part of the YouMe® series, is a double-flowered mophead that lives up to its romantic name. Each sterile floret unfurls in multiple layers of sepals, creating a lush, ruffled bloom reminiscent of an old-fashioned rose—fitting for a series named "You Me."

Rose-Like Ruffles

The mophead inflorescences are large, 7–9 inches across. The sterile florets bear 8–12+ sepals in multiple whorls, creating a deeply cupped, frilly, "double" form. Colors range from soft pink to lavender-blue (pH dependent). The layered petals have a substantial, almost waxy texture that catches light beautifully and resists rain damage better than thinner-petaled doubles. Flowers age to antique shades of greenish-pink and violet.

The plant is compact, 3–4 feet tall and wide, with strong stems and glossy, disease-resistant foliage.

Series Innovation

The YouMe® series (Dutch breeding) focused on double-flowered macrophyllas with strong stems and good garden performance. 'Romance' exemplifies these goals. Standard culture: morning shade, moist rich soil, USDA zones 6–9. Blooms on old wood.

Taxonomic Profile

• Family: Hydrangeaceae
• Genus: Hydrangea
• Species: macrophylla
• Cultivar: 'Romance' (PP16613; YouMe® series; syn. 'Youmenine')

Romantic Garden Star

'Romance' is tailor-made for bridal gardens, cottage gardens, cutting gardens, and any setting where lush, layered texture evokes romance. The double flowers are spectacular in arrangements—each head a bouquet. A modern cultivar with vintage soul.