Hydrangea macrophylla mop head

Hydrangea macrophylla — Mop Head

Few garden plants make a statement quite like the mop head hydrangea. Hydrangea macrophylla in its classic mop head form produces enormous, rounded flower heads packed with bold blooms in shades of blue, pink, red, and white — a spectacular summer display that persists well into autumn, with the dried flower heads offering additional ornamental interest through winter.

Available in a range of colours and sizes, mop head hydrangeas are among the most versatile flowering shrubs in cultivation — equally at home in a generous container on a terrace as they are anchoring a shaded border.

Why Choose a Mop Head Hydrangea?

• Bold, rounded flower heads in blue, pink, red, and white — one of summer's most dramatic displays
• Long season of interest — flowers from midsummer through autumn, with ornamental dried heads in winter
• Compact varieties ideal for pots and containers; larger forms perfect for borders and shaded spots
• Flower colour influenced by soil pH — acid soils produce blue tones, alkaline soils produce pink
• Deciduous with attractive, bold foliage providing structure through the growing season
• Low maintenance and reliable — a classic British garden favourite

Growing Conditions

Plant in partial shade to full sun in moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil. Shelter from harsh afternoon sun and cold, drying winds. Water generously during dry spells, particularly in containers. Deadhead in spring rather than autumn to protect developing buds from frost damage. Feed with a specialist hydrangea fertiliser in spring to encourage strong flowering.