Hydrangea macrophylla Blaumeise

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Blaumeise' (blue tit in German) is undoubtedly the best variety of flat-head hydrangea that offers the bluest inflorescences, if grown in acidic soil or enriched with aluminium sulphate. Flowers will be pinkish-purple in its natural state, when planted in garden soil that is neutral to slightly alkaline, or if the watering water is alkaline. It bears remarkable vigour, cold resistance, and floribundance. It quickly forms a giant cushion covered with large flower clusters in buds in the centre, surrounded by fully open florets on the periphery. Blooming from July to September, adorned with beautiful colours at the end of flowering, this variety is accessible to all gardeners and never disappoints. Plant 'Blaumeise' in a large semi-shaded bed; it needs space to fully show its potential!

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Blaumeise' is an excellent Swiss creation from the Wädenswil Research Station, dating back to 1979. It is a very hardy, robust, and particularly reliable hybrid. Hydrangeas belong to the Hydrangeaceae family and are native to China and Japan. 'Blaumeise' forms a large rounded and sprawling bush within a few years, supported by a strong framework that can withstand the weight of the flowers without weakening. It will reach a minimum height of 1.50 m (4.9 ft) and a spread of 1.80 m (5.9 ft). Under optimal conditions, it can reach a height of 2 m (6.6 ft). From July to September, numerous flattened inflorescences, 12 cm to 15 cm (4.7 in to 5.9 in) wide, appear on wood that is at least one year old. The inflorescences are composed of fertile flowers that resemble small buds, and larger and more showy sterile flowers. In acidic soil, these sterile flowers have an intense blue colour with a white centre. The fertile flowers in the centre of the bush will be azure blue. On the other hand, in neutral to alkaline soil, the flowers will have a pinkish or lilac hue, which is quite common for hydrangeas. 'Blaumeise' is one of the few hydrangeas with flat heads whose faded flowers retain interesting colours, such as grey-blue, mauve, water green with hints of slate and turquoise. The flowering period is accompanied by ample and glossy foliage, with a rounded shape, light green colour, and serrated edges, which turns beautiful colours in autumn before falling. The leaves are opposite, reaching a minimum length of about 15 cm (5.9 in). They are simple, oval to elliptical, ending in a tapering point, and coarsely saw-toothed. Hydrangeas can live for at least 50 years.

Hydrangea 'Blaumeise' is a brilliant, sturdy, and faithful plant, particularly beautiful and generous in blue in acidic soil enriched with aluminium sulphate. Hydrangeas are well known for brightening up the north side of houses. This one will thrive in a non-scorching east or west exposure, both in beds and hedges. This variety is particularly suitable for free-standing hedges, flower beds, or as a standalone plant near an entrance. Although these plants fear limestone, hydrangeas are not strictly speaking acid-loving plants. Pair them with Japanese maples, ferns, Japanese anemones, lilies, foxgloves, annual impatiens, or plant spring-flowering bulbs in front of their round silhouette. Enjoy their sumptuous flowering in the garden or in the house for a very long time. 

Tip: Do not prune too early! Leave the dried inflorescences on the plant and only cut them after spring frosts. They effectively protect the new vegetation and future flowers.

Note: The colour of the flowers of macrophylla hydrangeas varies depending on the pH of the soil. Traditionally blue varieties turn pink in neutral or alkaline soil. To maintain a beautiful blue colour, mix ericaceous soil into your garden soil and add aluminium sulphate (slate contains it) or alum stone every spring.