Hydrangea macrophylla

Originally from Japan, Hydrangea macrophylla is the species from which the mophead and lacecap cultivars all derive. Less showy than these cultivars, the species is suited to more naturalistic plantings. Flower colour varies from blue to pink to mauve, depending on the soil. In strongly acid soil (pH below 6), flowers turn blue... In slightly acid or neutral soil (pH 6 to 7), blooms may be purple or a mix of blue and pink on a single shrub. The big, toothed, oval leaves are deep green and give the plant the common name of big leaf hydrangea; they are a marvelous foil to other flowers in a border.

Site: Tolerates coastal exposure
Soil: Any reasonably well drained soil, moist and fertile preferred
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Season of Interest: Flowers in Summer into Autumn
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Height: up to 6’ (1.8m) Spread: 8ft (2.5m) eventually