Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Hamburg’

Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Hamburg’ produces large, rounded flower heads, up to 8 in. across (20 cm), densely packed with deep rose to purplish-blue florets, depending on the soil pH. The sepals are sometimes serrated, rounded, and overlapping. Blooming from early to late summer, its flowers change to the most incredible wine-red color in the fall, extending the season of interest of this mophead hydrangea. The profuse blossoms appear on a compact, bushy plant adorned with broadly ovate, dark green leaves. ‘Hamburg’ looks fabulous as a specimen or in small groupings in the garden. Great choice for flower arrangements too!

• This deciduous shrub has a round, bushy habit, typically growing up to 4-5 ft. tall and wide (120-150 cm)
• A sun to part shade lover, it is best grown in rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Tolerant of sun if the soil remains moist.
• Perfect from foundation plantings to container plantings. Massed in a sheltered location or as an accent plant. Effective as a hedge and makes excellent cut flowers too!
• No serious pest or disease issues. Watch for botrytis blight, bacterial wilt, leaf spot, rust, mildew.
• Remove spent flowers to promote new blooms.
• To change the color of your Hydrangea, add aluminum sulfate to the soil to make the flowers bluer or add lime to the soil to make them pinker. Treatment should occur ahead of time (late fall or early spring)
• This beautiful deciduous shrub should be pruned after flowering by cutting back the stems to a pair of healthy buds. Prune out weak or winter-damaged stems in early spring.
• Propagate by softwood cuttings in early summer or hardwood cuttings in winter.
• Hydrangea macrophylla species is native to Japan. It is reported from seaside habitats as well as mountains in Japan, from Honshu southwards. This species has naturalized in China, New Zealand and the Americas.
• May cause mild stomach upset if ingested, contact with foliage may aggravate skin allergies. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.