Bigleaf Hydrangea 'Peppermint' (Forever & Ever®): Striped Mophead with Candy-Cane Florets

Bigleaf Hydrangea 'Peppermint': Candy-Cane Stripes on Every Floret

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Peppermint' (Forever & Ever® series, cultivar name 'REI14') is a sensational bicolor mophead where each sterile floret is boldly striped in alternating sectors of red and white—like a peppermint candy. Hybridized by Irie (Japan), it brings a festive, confectionary quality to the hydrangea world.

Striped Floret Phenomenon

The mophead inflorescences are large, 7–9 inches across. Each sterile floret displays distinct, alternating red and white sectors radiating from the center—like a pinwheel or peppermint swirl. The pattern is genetically fixed and stable, not significantly affected by soil pH (though the red intensity may vary). The overall effect is a flower head that looks like a cluster of candy canes.

The plant is compact, 2–3 feet tall and wide, with strong stems and dark green, disease-resistant foliage—typical of the Forever & Ever® series bred for container performance.

Japanese Innovation

Hybridized by Irie (Japan), 'Peppermint' represents the cutting edge of Japanese hydrangea breeding for novel flower patterns. Standard culture: morning shade, moist rich soil, USDA zones 6–9. Blooms on old wood. The striped pattern holds best in slightly acidic to neutral soil.

Taxonomic Profile

• Family: Hydrangeaceae
• Genus: Hydrangea
• Species: macrophylla
• Cultivar: 'Peppermint' (Forever & Ever® series; syn. 'REI14')
• Hybridizer: Irie

Holiday Garden Star

'Peppermint' is a natural for holiday displays, winter containers, and festive gardens. The candy-cane stripes evoke seasonal cheer year-round. In arrangements, the striped florets are spectacular—each a miniature work of art. A cultivar that brings playfulness and pattern to the hydrangea genus.