Hydrangea macrophylla 'Dark Angel Red'
lacecap hydrangea
A fab new lacecap hydrangea with impressive, richly coloured flowerheads that are shown at their best against the backdrop of the prominently veined, burgundy-flushed foliage. The colour of the florets intensifies as they mature (as with all the hortensias, there will be some variation in colour depending on the soil's pH), but becomes richer as the summer progresses. Relatively compact, Hydrangea macrophylla 'Dark Angel Red' is also good in pots provided they are kept well watered. It is a stunner that is already pulling in the awards!
How to care for Hydrangea macrophylla Dark Angel Red:
Hydrangea thrives in moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter, making it important to improve the soil before planting by adding well-rotted compost or manure.
Choose a spot with partial shade, as full sun can scorch the leaves, especially in warmer climates, while deep shade may reduce flowering.
Regular watering is essential, particularly during dry spells, as these plants dislike drying out. To keep the soil cool and retain moisture, apply a layer of mulch around the base in spring, being careful not to let it touch the stems.
Pruning should be done with care. In early spring, remove any dead or damaged wood, but leave the old flowerheads on over winter to protect the buds below from frost.
For mophead and lacecap species, only prune back to the first pair of strong buds beneath the old flowers, as these types bloom on old wood. If necessary, remove one or two older stems down to the base to encourage new growth, but avoid cutting back the entire plant.
Fertilise in spring with a balanced feed, and for cultivars with colour-dependent blooms, test the soil pH. Adding hydrangea colourant (iron and aluminium salts) can enhance blue flowers in acidic soil, while lime can encourage pinker tones in alkaline conditions. It is best to choose according to the predominant soil conditions for best results on colour.
Choose a spot with partial shade, as full sun can scorch the leaves, especially in warmer climates, while deep shade may reduce flowering.
Regular watering is essential, particularly during dry spells, as these plants dislike drying out. To keep the soil cool and retain moisture, apply a layer of mulch around the base in spring, being careful not to let it touch the stems.
Pruning should be done with care. In early spring, remove any dead or damaged wood, but leave the old flowerheads on over winter to protect the buds below from frost.
For mophead and lacecap species, only prune back to the first pair of strong buds beneath the old flowers, as these types bloom on old wood. If necessary, remove one or two older stems down to the base to encourage new growth, but avoid cutting back the entire plant.
Fertilise in spring with a balanced feed, and for cultivars with colour-dependent blooms, test the soil pH. Adding hydrangea colourant (iron and aluminium salts) can enhance blue flowers in acidic soil, while lime can encourage pinker tones in alkaline conditions. It is best to choose according to the predominant soil conditions for best results on colour.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
1m
Eventual spread:
1m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, but well-drained soil, or general-purpose loam-based potting compost
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
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This shrub is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.
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Humans: Skin allergen; Pets: Harmful if eaten
2 litre pot
£17.99
In stock
(shipped within 2-3 working days)
(shipped within 2-3 working days)
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