Hydrangea Bluebird

A compact lacecap hydrangea with very good autumn colour, Hydrangea serrata Bluebird is a medium-sized, deciduous shrub with a rounded upright habit. Green, oval leaves turn a good, deep red in autumn. The deep blue fertile florets on the shapely lacecap flowers are surrounded by pale blue sterile florets (pale pink on less acid soil). These appear from early summer to early autumn. Leave the spent flower-heads over winter to prevent frost damage, cutting back to two fat buds when spring comes. Hydrangea Bluebird is a beautiful, low-maintenance, weed-suppressing shrub, which holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Site: Tolerates some exposure
Soil: Well drained, moisture-retentive acid to neutral soil
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Season of interest: Spring, summer, autumn
Hardiness: Fairly hardy
Height: up to 4 (1.2m) Spread: 4 (1.2m)