Hydrangea | Plant Profile

Hydrangeas are extremely popular options in the Pennsylvania climate. There are many varieties or hydrangea, with varying colors and sizes. The ‘Bailmer’ variety is pictured. Hydrangeas are deciduous shrubs with large rounded brightly colored flowers. These long lived blooms can be present from July to September. The leaves are light to dark green and are often serrated.

Hydrangeas prefer fertile, well drained soils in part shade. While they can tolerate full sun, they must be watered regularly. Pruning is sometimes required to remove dead stems after winter. Hydrangeas need some winter protection and should be mulched or located in a sheltered area. Harsh winters may prevent these plants from blooming. ‘Bailer’ is quite winter hardly and should reliably bloom regardless of winter damage.

Hydrangeas are often massed as natural borders or along fences. They can be beautiful accent pieces where height and large flowers are desired.