Hydrangea macrophylla – Bigleaf Hydrangea

Hydrangea macrophylla, commonly known as Bigleaf Hydrangea, is a popular deciduous flowering shrub admired for its large, romantic flower heads and lush foliage. Native to Japan, it is widely grown in gardens for its spectacular summer and autumn display and its ability to produce flowers in a range of colours, including white, pink, blue and purple.

The flower colour of many varieties can be influenced by soil conditions, particularly soil pH and the availability of aluminium. Acidic soils can encourage blue to purple flowers, while more alkaline conditions generally favour pink to red tones. White-flowering varieties are generally less affected by soil pH.

Bigleaf Hydrangea can develop either rounded mophead flower clusters or flatter lacecap-style blooms, depending on the variety. It performs best in moist, fertile, well-drained soil with protection from intense afternoon sun and drying winds.