Hydrangea aspera is the giant of the hydrangea world. The species comes from the Himalayas and is of similar proportions. So one plant is a show-stopper. It needs plenty of space, as well as light shade and protection from the wind.
Occasionally a late frost will knock out the new leaves which looks worse than it is. If this has happened cut the stems down to a live bud after all danger of frost has passed. Otherwise H.aspera only needs a little tidying up of gawky branches in April.
Hydrangea aspera 'Hot Chocolate'
Magnificent new form with chocolate-brown-green foliage and large pink lacecaps. Probably up to 3m. It seems to need a warm site in shade sheltered from cold winds. Summer flowering.
Deep violet florets with very long stamens contrast with a crown of bright white sterile flowers. Large hairy green leaves with light red stalks. 2-3m, but gets tall and leggy if left unpruned in late spring. Light shade.
Large domed heads of fertile flowers that turn dark red in autumn, numerous pink florets that age to deep lilac. Large velvety grey-green leaves with central red veins. 2m. Light shade
Magnificently dramatic shrub with thick bristly hairs covering the stems and petioles. Large flat lacecaps with a few white sterile florets and pink central flowers. The leaves, however,are huge - the size not of dinner plates, but of serving dishes. Give it a shady spot out of any wind and it will make a seriously large statement (2.5-3m)
Hydrangea involucratais an especially beautiful species closely related to H. aspera that needs a little extra consideration to grow. Position it in light shade where it will not face too many draughts, especially cold winds. In colder parts of the UK it may need the protection of fleece on cold spring nights. Prune only to tidy up any awkward stems in April. It is one of the last hydrangeas to show leaf, so don't panic. It's probably sitting out a cold spring.
Hydrangea involucrata ‘Hortensis’ (AGM)
From apricot nut-shaped buds emerge pale apricot and cream double flowers on slightly drooping stems. Lovely for front of border or a large pot. 1m. Light shade out of wind.
We are delighted to be able to offer just a very few of this lovely form. Its loose lacecaps open from pink buds to white semi-double flowers with just a hint of yellow at the centre.
