All About Hydrangea Varieties

Up until July, the hydrangea occupy a very large corner of the Garden Center somewhat overlooked. Despite their lush green spring growth, they garner the most attention when their familiar white, pink, purple, blue, and lime green blooms start showing off in the summer. When it comes to picking out a hydrangea even we admit it can be a little intimidating. Below is more information all about hydrangea varieties to guide you.

Hydrangea paniculata (Panicle hydrangea)

These are Hydrangea paniculata that have been pruned into the shape of a small tree. They have the same panicle-shaped flowers and come in the same varieties as the shrub form.

Hydrangea macrophylla (Big-leaf hydrangea)

These have the quintessential, globular flowers many associate as a hydrangea. Excellent cut flowers.

Hydrangea arborescens (Smooth hydrangea)

These have large leaves with rounded flowers, though they aren't as globular as the Hydrangea macrophylla. The florets that make up the flower clusters as not as big either. Of all the hydrangeas we carry, this is the only native type. Look for the 'Invincebelles' planted along the barn near our cut flower and propagation beds. They have reliably bloomed for many years now.

Hydrangea serrata (Mountain hydrangea)

Their compact habit make them an excellent choice for smaller landscapes. Intriguing, flattened lacecap flowers distinguish them from other hydrangea. We've found their bud hardiness is more reliable than Hydrangea macrophylla.

Hydrangea petiolaris (Climbing hydrangea)

The only hydrangea that climbs! Unique textured flowers, glossy foliage, bark interest during the winter. Look for the specimen growing on the west side of the Garden Center.

---

Hydrangea FAQ

What's the bluest hydrangea that will grow well in Vermont?
Hydrangea serrata 'Blue Billow' is the most blue of the mountain hydrangeas. If you're looking for the big-leaf blue hydrangeas (like what you see on the Cape), we've found Hydrangea macrophylla 'Bloomstruck' has the hardiest buds. You will need to amend the soil to be more acidic for true blue flowers.'

Does Horsford's carry PeeGee hydrangea?

Yes, we do. PeeGee hydrangea can refer to a few different varieties but usually, it's a full-flowered, panicle variety. Historically it has been Hydrangea paniculata 'Grandiflora'. We also recommend Hydrangea paniculata 'Limelight' since it's a nice full flower and more upright than 'Grandiflora'. Hydrangea paniculata 'Sweet Summer' is also a nice choice.

What dwarf varieties do you have?

Some of our growers' favorites include Hydrangea paniculata 'Bobo', 'Little Lime' and 'Little Quickfire'.

What's the hardiest hydrangea available?

The Hydrangea arborescens varieties are the hardiest. We recommend 'Annabelle'.

Are hydrangea native?

Of all hydrangea we carry, only Hydrangea arborescens and its 'nativars' are native.

Do pollinators like hydrangea?

It is helpful to know hydrangea have two types of "flowers". Sterile flowers are the decorative, larger petaled structures humans tend to be drawn toward. Hydrangea's fertile flowers are more inconspicuous to our eyes but visited by all types of pollinators. For this reason, lacecap varieties are better when planting for pollinators over mophead types since the plant's fertile flowers are more accessible. Read about recommended varieties for pollinators from Mt. Cuba Center's hydrangea trials.

When and how do I prune hydrangea?

This varies between types:
- Arborescens - cut back as far as you want in fall or early Spring. You'll get flowers on the new growth.
- Paniculata/Treeform - cut back no more than one third of the plant at a time in fall or early Spring and you'll get flowers on the new growth. Thinning is recommended for Treeform.
- Serrata and Macrophylla - Don't cut in the fall. Wait and see how far up the stems the plant is budding out. In Spring, cut back to where they're budding out.
- Climbing - prune to desired shape in early Spring.

How much sun do hydrangea prefer?

Overall, morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal. Most can handle more sun but they will likely require more watering.
- Arborescens - can handle more shade but will bloom better with half day of sun.
- Paniculata and Treeform - full half day of sun needed to bloom well. These can handle the most sun though.
- Serrata and Macrophylla - half day of sun, afternoon shade preferred.
- Climbing - can handle shade

All Hydrangea Varieties >

---