Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Hydrangea macrophylla
Bigleaf Hydrangea
- Family
- Hydrangeaceae
- Height
- 3 to 6 feet
- Width
- 3 to 6 feet
- Flower color
- Blooms range from blue, to purple, to pink
- Foliage color
- Large, glossy, dark green leaves
- Bloom time
- Summer
- Light
- Partial shade to full sun
- Water
- Regular
- Maintenance
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape; fertilize in early spring; protect from strong winds and harsh afternoon sun
- Growing zone
- USDA Zones 5 to 9
- Wildlife
- Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies
About this plant
Hydrangea macrophylla, commonly known as bigleaf hydrangea, is a deciduous shrub admired for its lush, rounded clusters of blooms that appear from late spring to early fall. The flower colors range from blue to pink, to purple or white, influenced by soil pH, with blue hues in acidic soils and pinks in alkaline conditions. These long-lasting blossoms are complemented by the plant's large, glossy green leaves.
Native to Japan, Hydrangea macrophylla has been cultivated worldwide for ornamental use, prized for its ability to adapt to garden borders, containers, or as an accent shrub in landscapes. Its flower heads, categorized as mophead or lacecap, provide dynamic texture and beauty throughout the growing season.
Works well in
Shade Gardens · Foundation Plantings · Cut Flower Gardens · Cottage Gardens
Companion plants
Fatsia · Skimmia · Tiarella · Camellia · Trillium · Lily-of-the-valley
Design tip
Bigleaf Hydrangea can establish the primary color story for an entire summer garden. Its large flower heads create broad areas of blue, purple, or pink, making even a single shrub visually influential within the overall composition.
