Bigleaf Hydrangea 'Selina' (Dutch Ladies Series): Compact Lacecap with Picotee Florets

Bigleaf Hydrangea 'Selina': Picotee Lacecap from the Dutch Ladies Series

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Selina' (PP20124, cultivar name 'Sidaseli'), part of the Dutch Ladies Series, is a refined lacecap cultivar distinguished by its picotee sterile florets—each broad floret edged in a contrasting color, creating a delicate, outlined effect. Hybridized by van der Spek and introduced in 2007.

Outlined Florets

The lacecap inflorescences are 4–6 inches across. The central fertile flowers are blue (acid soil) or pink (alkaline). The surrounding sterile florets are large and broad, each with a distinct white margin (picotee) against a pink or blue base. This outlining effect gives the flower head a crisp, graphic quality—like a botanical illustration. The pattern is stable and genetically fixed.

The plant is compact, 2–3 feet tall and wide, with strong stems and dark green, glossy foliage—typical of the Dutch Ladies Series bred for container and small-garden performance.

Dutch Breeding Excellence

Hybridized by van der Spek (Netherlands), 'Selina' represents the precision of Dutch hydrangea breeding: stable novel traits, compact habit, disease resistance. Standard culture: morning shade, moist soil, zones 6–9. Blooms on old wood.

Taxonomic Profile

• Family: Hydrangeaceae
• Genus: Hydrangea
• Species: macrophylla
• Cultivar: 'Selina' (PP20124; Dutch Ladies Series; syn. 'Sidaseli')
• Hybridizer: van der Spek
• Introduced: 2007

Graphic Garden Presence

The picotee pattern gives 'Selina' a modern, graphic appeal. It shines in contemporary gardens, containers, and mixed borders where clean lines and defined edges are valued. The outlined florets are striking in cut arrangements. A cultivar that brings Dutch design sensibility to the hydrangea world.