What: Once you see the flowers of Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Ayesha,’ you will never forget them. The large mophead blooms begin to open cream-white then shift to a pale, sky blue to light pink, depending on how acidic the soil. The individual florets have unusual cup shaped petal-like sepals reminiscent of old fashioned lilac flowers. The flower heads open over a long period of time, giving a soft two-toned coloring of cream and blue, or pink. It is one of the only hydrangeas to have a delicate light fragrance in bloom. This deciduous shrub starts blooming in early-to-mid summer on a densely foliaged frame. White and silver-leaved variegated plants look great with its pale colored flowers. The fresh green foliage and heavy flowering will stand out in the summer landscape against dark green conifers and broadleaf evergreens.
Where: This hydrangea grows best in light to open shade. A location protected from hot sun will keep the foliage and flowers from prematurely fading or scorching. A rich moist to well-drained soil produces the best growth and flowering.
Size: Grows to 6 feet tall by 6 feet wide in 10 years.
Care: Regular watering in summer is required. Remove a few old twiggy branches to the ground yearly. or prune lightly to improve the overall shape. However, heavy pruning can ruin the flowering for the following year. Consult an experienced pruner or take a class before attempting substantial pruning.
— greatplantpicks.org
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
