Bigleaf Hydrangea, Hydrangea
Hydrangea x hybrida
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
72 inches
Width
60 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Regular watering, keep soil moist
Humidity
Prefers moderate to high humidity
Lifespan
Up to 50 years
Native To
Asia and the Americas
Toxicity
All parts of the plant are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.
The Story
Plant Bio
Deciduous shrub prized for its large, impressive flower heads that bloom in summer. Foliage is typically large, toothed, and deep green. For many cultivars, flower color is dependent on soil pH; acidic soils with available aluminum produce blue flowers, while alkaline soils result in pink or red flowers. White-flowered cultivars typically do not change color.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a location with partial sun and well-drained soil.
- Tuck bare roots or plant seedlings in early spring after the last frost.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.
- Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
- Prune dead or weak stems in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Fertilize with a balanced, acid-loving plant fertilizer in spring and mid-summer.
Pro Tip
Ensure soil remains consistently moist and rich in organic matter for vibrant blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist 💧
- Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Prune after flowering to shape and remove dead wood
- Feed with a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer
- Monitor for pests and treat early
Don't
- Avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot ❌
- Don't prune in late summer or fall, as it may reduce next year's blooms
- Avoid planting in heavy, poorly-drained clay soils
- Refrain from fertilizing with high-nitrogen fertilizers that promote leafy growth over flowers
- Don't ignore pests or diseases when they appear
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Bigleaf Hydrangea, Hydrangea questions
What zones can Bigleaf Hydrangea, Hydrangea grow in?
Bigleaf Hydrangea, Hydrangea is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Bigleaf Hydrangea, Hydrangea deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Bigleaf Hydrangea, Hydrangea, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Bigleaf Hydrangea, Hydrangea bloom?
Bigleaf Hydrangea, Hydrangea typically blooms in summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Bigleaf Hydrangea, Hydrangea need full sun?
Bigleaf Hydrangea, Hydrangea does best in part shade.
More Hydrangea to compare
Incrediball Hydrangea
Hydrangea arborescens 'Incrediball'
Limelight Hydrangea
Hydrangea paniculata 'Limelight'
Bobo Hydrangea
Hydrangea macrophylla 'Bobo'
Little Lime Hydrangea
Hydrangea quercifolia 'Little Lime'
Bloomstruck Hydrangea
Hydrangea macrophylla 'Bloomstruck'
All Summer Beauty Hydrangea
Hydrangea macrophylla 'All Summer Beauty'
Keep exploring
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