A very appealing lacecap hydrangea, Hydrangea macrophylla 'Sumida No Hanabi' is a vigorous deciduous shrub laden with large, incredibly flat inflorescences, up to 10 in. across (22 cm), from early summer to early fall. The flower heads are composed of showy, double florets, dangling from long pedicels, and radiating around a central cluster of tiny, fertile, double flowers. The star-shaped blossoms can be white, pale pink or pale blue depending on soil pH. The profuse blossoms are beautifully framed by the foliage of large, shiny dark green leaves with serrated margins. 'Sumida No Hanabi' is an outstanding landscape shrub for lightly shaded gardens or containers. Great for cutting, its flowers can be used fresh or in dried flower arrangements. A good selection for coastal gardens since this plant can handle salty winds.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society for its noteworthy qualities
• This deciduous shrub has a round, bushy habit, typically growing up to 3-6 ft. tall and wide (90-180 cm)
• A part shade lover, it is best grown in rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Tolerant of sun if the soil remains moist.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Watch for aphids, capsid bug, hydrangea scale and vine weevil.
• Perfect from foundation plantings to container plantings. Massed in a sheltered location or as an accent plant.
• 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.
• 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.