Most Ideal Hydrangeas for Shaded Outdoor Spaces
In the world of flowering shrubs, the hydrangea genus stands out, with eleven deciduous species that range from small trees to climbing vines. These versatile plants are known for their stunning blossoms, and one of the most popular is the mophead style of Hydrangea macrophylla.
Smooth hydrangeas, specifically Hydrangea arborescens, are a larger shrub that works well for a hedge and are the most heat hardy of the hydrangeas. They are particularly suitable for gardens that receive partial shade, with over three hours of direct sun.
If your garden is shady, you'll need to figure out how much sun a site actually gets to pick the best hydrangea for that spot. The best hydrangeas for full shade are mainly Hydrangea macrophylla types, also known as bigleaf hydrangeas, which tolerate shade well and can bloom in less light. Other shade-tolerant varieties include Hydrangea arborescens (smooth hydrangea) and Hydrangea quercifolia (oakleaf hydrangea).
The colorful flower petals of mophead hydrangeas are actually sepals, modified leaves. These blossoms grow into the popular snow-ball shape in shades of pink, red, and blue. Lacecap hydrangeas, on the other hand, display the small, fertile flowers in the flat center of the blossom with the sepals surrounding them.
Panicle flowers are grown by hydrangeas on Hydrangea paniculata and Hydrangea quercifolia. These unique flowers grow in conical shapes and can reach up to a meter in height.
When a site is hit by sunshine directly for more than a few hours a day, the exposure is classified as partial shade. Newly planted hydrangeas must be watered regularly and generously until established. A layer of mulch atop the soil also helps lock in that water, maintaining the moisture into the soil and providing essential nutrients as it breaks down.
Hydrangeas prefer to sink their roots into soil that has been generously amended with compost or other organic matter. This enriches the soil, promoting healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
Teo Spengler, a master gardener and a docent at the San Francisco Botanical Garden, offers her expertise on these beautiful plants. She has studied horticulture and written about nature, trees, plants, and gardening for more than two decades. With her guidance, you can choose the perfect hydrangea for your garden and enjoy these stunning blooms for years to come.
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