Hydrangea macrophylla 'Lanarth White'
lacecap hydrangea
Incredibly beautiful when the larger than average lacecap flowers appear in midsummer, this hydrangea is also said to be one of the most adaptable. Therefore, if you have a spot that is cold and exposed, or if you live by the seaside, or even if your soil is not that great, then Hydrangea macrophylla 'Lanarth White' is the one for you.
Keep in mind though that like most hydrangeas the flower colour (in this case the inner florets), will change colour depending on the soil's pH - turning pink in neutral to alkaline soils and bluer in acidic soils.
Keep in mind though that like most hydrangeas the flower colour (in this case the inner florets), will change colour depending on the soil's pH - turning pink in neutral to alkaline soils and bluer in acidic soils.
How to care for Hydrangea macrophylla Lanarth White:
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:
1.2m
Eventual spread:
1.2m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
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
