Endless Summer Hydrangea, , Hydrangea macrophylla 'Bailmer', Bigleaf Hydrangea
A favorite among gardeners—and rightly so—Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Endless Summer’ is an exceptional mophead cultivar for two key reasons. First, its unique ability to bloom on both old and new growth allows it to consistently produce beautiful flowers all summer long, as buds form in spring and fall. Second, its excellent winter hardiness ensures reliable flowering, regardless of winter temperatures.
Commonly known as Endless Summer Hydrangea, this beloved deciduous shrub is celebrated for its impressive display of large, vibrant blooms that persist throughout the summer and into fall. Gardeners prize this variety for its stunning blue and pink flowers, which change based on soil pH, adding a lively touch to any landscape.
This hydrangea is a member of the Hydrangeaceae family, which includes several popular garden varieties like Hydrangea paniculata (Panicle Hydrangea), Hydrangea arborescens (Smooth Hydrangea), Hydrangea quercifolia (Oakleaf Hydrangea), Hydrangea serrata (Mountain Hydrangea), and Hydrangea anomala petiolaris (Climbing Hydrangea).
The Endless Summer Hydrangea is celebrated for its stunning, large flower clusters that can range from vivid blue to soft pink, depending on the soil’s pH. This variety exhibits a compact growth habit, making it an excellent choice for borders, containers, and small gardens. Its continuous bloom cycle distinguishes it from many traditional hydrangeas, providing long-lasting color and interest in the landscape.
Although originally from Japan, the Endless Summer Hydrangea has adapted well to various climates and growing conditions. It thrives in gardens across North America, particularly in temperate regions where it can benefit from well-drained soil and adequate moisture. This adaptability has made it a staple in home gardens.
Endless Summer Hydrangea is a deciduous shrub known for its rounded, bushy growth habit. It typically develops multiple stems that create a dense appearance, making it visually appealing throughout the growing season. The sturdy stems support the large flower clusters, ensuring they remain upright and attractive.
Endless Summer Hydrangea generally grows 3-5 feet (0.9-1.5 meters) tall and wide. This compact size makes it ideal for use as a foundation plant, in garden borders, or as part of mixed perennial beds.
The standout feature of the Endless Summer Hydrangea is its large, rounded flower heads that can reach up to 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) in diameter. The blooms typically begin as vibrant blue in acidic soils, transitioning to a lovely pink in alkaline conditions. This color versatility adds significant charm to the garden, allowing for creative landscaping possibilities.
Blooming from early summer through fall, the Endless Summer Hydrangea offers a lengthy flowering period, producing new flower clusters throughout the summer. Its ability to bloom on both old and new wood allows for reliable flowering, even after pruning. As the blooms mature, they may develop hints of green, contributing to the overall beauty of the shrub.
The foliage is lush and dark green, with broad, serrated leaves that provide a rich backdrop for the stunning flowers. The leaves typically remain healthy throughout the growing season and may exhibit beautiful autumn colors, adding to the visual interest of the shrub as it transitions into fall.
Endless Summer Hydrangea is hardy in USDA zones 4-9, making it suitable for a wide range of climates. It is salt tolerant.
This versatile shrub fits beautifully into many landscaping applications. It works well as a focal point in borders with companion plants, as a specimen plant, flowering hedge, or in mass plantings for stunning visual impact. The blooms also make excellent cut flowers, adding elegance to floral arrangements. They can also be dried and preserved for use in wreaths and home decor, allowing you to enjoy their beauty year-round.
Hydrangea macrophylla attracts pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, due to its abundant flowers. The blooms provide nectar, supporting local ecosystems and enhancing biodiversity in the garden.
According to the ASPCA, Hydrangea is considered toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. It also has low-severity poison characteristics for humans: consuming large quantities can lead to nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, and sweating.
Hydrangea plants are not reliably deer-resistant, making it important to take precautions if deer are a concern in your garden.
Endless Summer Hydrangea is not considered invasive. It is a well-behaved shrub that maintains its size and shape without spreading aggressively, making it an excellent addition to a variety of garden settings.
Endless Summer Hydrangea offers stunning floral displays, a long blooming season, and the ability to attract pollinators. Its versatility in landscape design and ability to adapt to different soil conditions make it a favored choice for gardeners seeking beauty and resilience in their gardens.
Endless Summer Hydrangea prefers partial shade. Full sun is tolerated if constant moisture is provided.
Thrives in fertile, well-drained soil. Adding organic matter can improve soil structure and fertility. Soil pH significantly affects flower color, with more acidic soils producing vibrant blue flowers.
Requires regular watering, especially during dry spells. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, as overwatering can lead to root rot. Mulching can help retain soil moisture.
Use a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring as new growth begins. Fertilize again in mid-summer to support ongoing blooming. Everything you need to know about fertilizing hydrangeas.
Prune immediately after flowering to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged wood. Avoid heavy pruning in the fall, as Endless Summer Hydrangea blooms on both old and new wood. Learn how to prune your hydrangea to maximize flower production.
Can be propagated through cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Use stem cuttings with at least two nodes and root in moist potting soil. Discover how to propagate your hydrangea for more beautiful blooms.
Mulch around the base with 3-4 inches of organic material to insulate roots. Wrap smaller plants in burlap to protect against harsh winds and frost. Ensure the soil remains moist before the ground freezes, allowing the plants to enter dormancy without stress. Learn how to prepare your hydrangea bush for winter.
Watch for pests like aphids and spider mites. Powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot can occur in humid conditions. Regular monitoring and proper care can mitigate these issues. Popular pests and diseases affecting hydrangea plants.
Yes, Endless Summer Hydrangea can tolerate full sun in some climates, but it benefits from some afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates, to prevent leaf scorch.
It is advisable to prune them immediately after flowering to maintain their shape and encourage new growth for the next season.
The best place to plant Endless Summer Hydrangeas is in well-drained, fertile soil that receives full sun to partial shade. Adequate spacing for air circulation is essential.
It is best to plant Endless Summer Hydrangeas at least 3 to 4 feet (90-120 cm) away from your house or other structures to allow for their mature size and proper air circulation.
To keep Endless Summer Hydrangeas blooming, ensure they receive adequate sunlight, maintain consistent moisture, and fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in spring. Regular deadheading of spent blooms can also encourage new growth and extended blooming throughout the summer.
| Hardiness |
4 - 9 |
|---|---|
| Heat Zones |
6 - 9 |
| Climate Zones | 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1 |
| Plant Type | Shrubs |
| Plant Family | Hydrangeaceae |
| Genus | Hydrangea |
| Common names | Bigleaf Hydrangea, Hydrangea |
| Exposure | Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall |
| Height | 3' - 5' (90cm - 150cm) |
| Spread | 3' - 5' (90cm - 150cm) |
| Spacing | 36" - 60" (90cm - 150cm) |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Dried Arrangements, Cut Flowers, Showy |
| Garden Uses | Beds And Borders, Hedges And Screens, Patio And Containers |
| Garden Styles | Traditional Garden, City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage |
| Hardiness |
4 - 9 |
|---|---|
| Heat Zones |
6 - 9 |
| Climate Zones | 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1 |
| Plant Type | Shrubs |
| Plant Family | Hydrangeaceae |
| Genus | Hydrangea |
| Common names | Bigleaf Hydrangea, Hydrangea |
| Exposure | Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall |
| Height | 3' - 5' (90cm - 150cm) |
| Spread | 3' - 5' (90cm - 150cm) |
| Spacing | 36" - 60" (90cm - 150cm) |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Dried Arrangements, Cut Flowers, Showy |
| Garden Uses | Beds And Borders, Hedges And Screens, Patio And Containers |
| Garden Styles | Traditional Garden, City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage |
How many Hydrangea macrophylla Endless Summer® The Original do I need for my garden?
| Plant | Quantity | |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrangea macrophylla Endless Summer® The Original | N/A | Buy Plants |
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Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
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