Hydrangea macrophylla - superior flowers!

Hydrangeas – Varieties 'Nikko Blue', 'Red Baron', 'E. Mouillere', 'Bouquet Rose'

Garden hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla) are among the most beautiful ornamental shrubs, admired for their large, spherical flower clusters in various colors. They are popular in gardens worldwide due to their decorative qualities and relatively easy cultivation. The varieties 'Nikko Blue', 'Red Baron', 'E. Mouillere', and 'Bouquet Rose' stand out with their intense colors and diverse flower shapes.

Hydrangea 'Nikko Blue'

'Nikko Blue' is a classic hydrangea variety with beautiful blue flowers that can change color depending on soil acidity. On acidic soil, the flowers take on a deep, blue hue, while on alkaline soil, they may turn pink. It blooms profusely from June to September, producing large, spherical flower clusters. The shrub grows to about 1.5 meters in height and width. It prefers partially shaded spots and moist, fertile soil.

Hydrangea 'Red Baron'

'Red Baron' is a variety with intensely red flowers that stand out against dark green foliage. Like other hydrangeas, its flowers may change color depending on soil pH – on more acidic soils, they take on a purple tone. It is a compact variety, reaching about 1-1.5 meters in height, making it ideal for smaller gardens or flower beds. It blooms from July to September and prefers sheltered, partially shaded locations.

Hydrangea 'E. Mouillere'

'E. Mouillere' is a variety with large, pure white flowers that may gently shift to pink towards the end of the blooming period. Its flower clusters are slightly smaller and more open compared to other varieties, giving it a delicate appearance. The shrub grows up to 1.5 meters in height and width, blooming from June to September. 'E. Mouillere' is an excellent choice for brightening up shady garden corners, as it thrives in lightly shaded areas.

Hydrangea 'Bouquet Rose'

'Bouquet Rose' is characterized by large, pink flowers with an intense shade that can take on a purple tone in acidic soils. This variety blooms abundantly with large, spherical flower clusters that appear from July to September. The plant reaches about 1.5 meters in height and width and prefers partially shaded locations with moist, well-drained soil.

Cultivation and Care

All these garden hydrangea varieties have similar requirements. They grow best in partially shaded areas with fertile, moist soils that are slightly acidic. Hydrangeas are sensitive to water shortages, so regular watering, especially during summer, is crucial. To ensure abundant blooming, it's recommended to fertilize the plants with hydrangea-specific fertilizers, particularly those that help maintain the desired flower color.

These four varieties: 'Nikko Blue', 'Red Baron', 'E. Mouillere', and 'Bouquet Rose' are excellent choices for any garden, bringing a wealth of colors and flower forms throughout the season.