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Key characteristics

Family: Hydrangeaceae
Height: 4 to 6 feet
Width: 4 to 6 feet
Flower color: Light pink (alkaline soil), pale blue (acidic soil)
Foliage color: Green with creamy white margins
Bloom time: Early summer to late summer
Light: Partial shade to full sun
Water: Regular
Maintenance: Low; prune after flowering if needed
Growing zone: USDA zones 6 to 9
Wildlife: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators

Shrubs

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Variegata'

Variegated Hydrangea

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Variegata' is a distinctive lacecap hydrangea admired for its elegant variegated foliage and delicate flowers. Its large, flat flowerheads bloom from late spring through summer, featuring clusters of small fertile flowers surrounded by showy, sterile florets in soft shades of blue or pink, depending on soil pH. The leaves are green with creamy-white edges, creating a beautiful contrast that adds year-round ornamental value even when the plant is not in bloom.

Light

Partial shade to full sun

Water

Regular

Bloom time

Early summer to late summer

Find this plant

Works well in

Shade Gardens
Foundation Plantings
Cut Flower Gardens
Cottage Gardens

Companion plants

Yew · Oregon grape · Corydalis · Hosta · Anemone · Foamflower

Design tip

Use ‘Variegata’ to brighten darker areas of a border where its creamy leaf margins can provide contrast even when the shrub is not flowering. Its lacecap blooms add a lighter, more delicate layer without obscuring the decorative foliage.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)