Identifying and Caring for Two Hydrangea Varieties

Clearance Hydrangeas Identified: PeeGee and Variegated Bigleaf

A gardener bought two tagless hydrangeas on clearance. One turned out variegated without blooms; the other produced white flowers aging to pink. Photos enabled precise identification.

Identification Results

• Large plant: Hydrangea paniculata 'Grandiflora' (PeeGee or PG). Blooms on new wood; prune in winter.
• Variegated plant: Hydrangea macrophylla 'Variegata'. Blooms on old wood; prune right after flowering. Flower color shifts with soil pH (blue in acid, pink in alkaline).

Care Guidelines

• Both prefer slightly acidic soil; amend with peat or oak leaves.
• Use acidifying fertilizer (e.g., Miracid) to maintain pH.
• Full to part sun; variegated types need more sun for best foliage color.
• PeeGee is the most adaptable; variegated bigleaf is less vigorous.

Photos dramatically simplify hydrangea identification and care planning.