Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Hydrangea aspera ‘Koki’
Koki Plum Passion Hydrangea
- Family
- Hydrangeaceae
- Height
- 5 to 8 feet
- Width
- 5 to 8 feet
- Flower color
- Light pink florets with a lavender center
- Foliage color
- Dark green, with purple undersides
- Bloom time
- Late summer to early fall
- Light
- Partial shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; prune after flowering
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 6 to 9
- Wildlife
- Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
About this plant
Hydrangea aspera 'Koki' is a deciduous shrub known for its unique and textured appearance. New leaf growth emerges in a deep purple-red, adding a dramatic flair to the plant in early spring. As the leaves mature, they transition to a rich green, but the undersides remain a striking dark burgundy purple, providing a beautiful contrast throughout the season. The large, velvety leaves contribute to a lush, tropical aesthetic.
In mid to late summer, 'Koki' produces stunning lacecap flower heads, with a central cluster of tiny, mauve to lavender fertile flowers surrounded by a halo of larger, pale lavender or pink sterile florets. The combination of vibrant colors and varied textures gives 'Koki' a distinctive and elegant look, making it an excellent choice for adding visual and tactile interest to shaded garden areas, borders, or woodland setting.
Works well in
Shade Gardens · Foundation Plantings · Cut Flower Gardens · Cottage Gardens
Companion plants
Daphnes · Camellia · Coral bells · Solomon's seal · Oxalis · Hellebore
Design tip
The dramatic foliage gives ‘Koki’ a strong presence long before its flowers appear. Its transition from purple-red spring growth to green leaves with burgundy undersides creates changing layers of color, while velvety texture adds depth throughout the season.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at Bellevue Botanical Garden.
