Hydrangea macrophylla Xian

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Xian', sometimes marketed as Magical Opal, is an exceptional variety of hydrangea in terms of its colour, floribundity, and robustness. Well bushy, with sturdy stems, the shrub blooms from July and the flowering continues until autumn. Its semi-globular inflorescences are beautifully formed and change colour over time. They gradually transition from blue (in acidic soil) or pink (in neutral soil) to light green if the plant grows in partial shade. Shades of green, red or blue appear when the plant receives more sunlight. The flowers remain decorative until autumn and are stunning in fresh or dried bouquets. The plant is very hardy, tolerating the sun and resisting rain very well.

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Xian' is a recent creation by Keeth Eveleens. It is classified in the horticultural category of "lace-cap", meaning hydrangeas with "lace bonnet" flowers, but its flowers are almost entirely composed of fertile florets, giving them a superb density and a semi-globular shape. It is one of the many hybrids obtained by cross-breeding the species Hydrangea macrophylla and H. aspera, among others. All these hardy plants belong to the Hydrangeaceae family and are native to China and Japan.

This shrub has a compact habit, barely wider than it is tall, reaching about 1.3 m (4.3 ft) in all directions. It blooms from July to September. Its four-petaled fertile florets will be coloured pale blue if the soil is acidic (pH<6). In more neutral soil (pH 6 to 7), they are a fresh pink. They then turn to almond green, with a texture resembling paper. The flowering is accompanied by beautiful deciduous dark green foliage. The leaves are opposite, reaching a minimum length of about 10 cm (3.9 in). They are simple, ovate to elliptical, ending in a pointed tip, with serrated edges.

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Xian' has excellent hardiness and good weather resistance. Hydrangeas are well-known for brightening the north side of houses. This one is absolutely superb and will thrive in the sun, in flower beds as well as hedges. This variety is also suitable for cultivation in large containers, which can be placed on a terrace or near the house. Although these plants dislike limestone, hydrangeas are not strictly acid-loving plants: they like rich, loose, non-calcareous, and fresh soil in summer. Combine them with Magellan fuchsias, annual impatiens, or plant spring-flowering bulbs in front of their generous silhouette.