Hydrangea serrata 'Impératrice Eugénie' (also known as 'Empress Eugenie', 'Impératrice Eugénie') bears the name of Empress Eugénie de Montijo, wife of Napoleon III—a testament to its origins in the grand gardens of Second Empire France. This historic lacecap cultivar combines imperial elegance with the refined charm of the mountain hydrangea.
The lacecap inflorescences are broad and graceful, 4–6 inches across. The central fertile flowers form a prominent dome of deep blue (acid soil) or rich pink (alkaline). The surrounding sterile florets are large, pure white, and elegantly cupped, held on slender pedicels. The overall effect is aristocratic—refined, balanced, and undeniably graceful.
The plant forms a low, mounded shrub 2–3 feet tall and wide, with the slender, arching stems and finely serrated leaves of H. serrata. Superior cold hardiness (USDA zones 5–9).
This cultivar dates to the mid-19th century, a period of intense French interest in hydrangeas. The dedication to Empress Eugénie reflects the fashion for naming ornamental plants after royalty. The encoding variants ('Imp閞atrice Eug閚ie') are artifacts of character set limitations. Culture: bright shade, moist soil, cooler nights preferred. Blooms on old wood.
'Impératrice Eugénie' brings a touch of Second Empire elegance to modern gardens. Its refined lacecaps suit formal shade borders, heritage gardens, and French-inspired landscapes. The serrata heritage ensures better bud hardiness than macrophylla lacecaps. A living connection to the gardens of Napoleon III.
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