Special Web Offer - Get 50% OFF!
Grab Your Deal Now
PlantSnap
Plant Care
Bigleaf hydrangea
(Hydrangea macrophylla)
Also Known As
Bigleaf hydrangea, Mophead hydrangea, French hydrangea, Garden hydrangea
About This Plant
Hydrangea macrophylla is a deciduous shrub that is native to Japan and Korea. It is known for its large, showy flowers that bloom in shades of pink, blue, and white.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 m)
Light Requirements
Hydrangea macrophylla prefers partial shade to full shade. Too much direct sunlight can damage the leaves and flowers.
Humidity Needs
Hydrangea macrophylla prefers moderate to high humidity levels. It can benefit from regular misting or a humidifier.
Fertilizing Schedule
Hydrangea macrophylla benefits from a balanced fertilizer applied in early spring and again in late summer. Use a fertilizer with a higher phosphorus content to encourage blooming.
Pruning Guidelines
Hydrangea macrophylla blooms on old wood, so prune in late summer or early fall after the flowers have faded. Remove any dead or damaged wood, and cut back the remaining stems to control the size and shape of the plant.
Common Pests and Diseases
Common pests for Hydrangea macrophylla include aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. Diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot can also occur.
Indoor Size Range
24-36 inches (61-91 cm)
Watering Schedule
Hydrangea macrophylla prefers consistently moist soil. Water deeply once a week, or more frequently in hot, dry weather.
Temperature Range
Hydrangea macrophylla prefers cool to moderate temperatures, between 60-75°F (15-24°C). It can tolerate occasional dips in temperature, but not prolonged exposure to extreme heat or cold.
Growing Season
Hydrangea macrophylla blooms from early summer to fall.
Growing Difficulty Level
Hydrangea macrophylla is considered moderately difficult to grow. It requires specific soil conditions and regular maintenance to thrive.
USDA Hardiness Zones
Hydrangea macrophylla is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Did You Know?
The color of the flowers of Hydrangea macrophylla can be influenced by the pH of the soil. Acidic soil produces blue flowers, while alkaline soil produces pink flowers. White flowers are not affected by soil pH.
