Hydrangea serrata Magic Pillow - Mountain Hydrangea

Hydrangea serrata Magic Pillow 'HSOPR015' is a Japanese hydrangea unlike any other. It is very floriferous, and low and wide, which brings something new to the range of flat-headed hydrangeas. The vegetation of this bush forms a nice dome and is adorned with light inflorescences throughout the summer. Their centre of small florets are violet-pink in neutral soil, or mauve-blue in acidic soil. A surprising and charming ground cover, which also works well in a large pot on a terrace. 

Originating from the mountains of Japan and Korea, Hydrangea serrata are very hardy plants, less sensitive to late frosts, belonging to the Hydrangeaceae family.

Magic Pillow forms a ramified, almost creeping, low bush, reaching about 60cm (24in) in height and 1.2m (4ft) in width, or even more depending on growing conditions. Its foliage consists of leaves smaller and more ovate than those of Hydrangea macrophylla, and is finely dentate on the edge. Its flat, airy panicles, 10 to 12cm (4 to 5in) wide, bloom from June to September and fade in beautiful shades. The sterile white florets surround very small fertile flowers in the shape of buttons. The colour of the flowers depends on the presence or absence in the soil of aluminium sulphate, and on the acidity of the soil. Note that hydrangeas are robust plants that can live at least 50 years. 

Particularly appreciating moist soil and a semi-shaded exposure, Hydrangea serrata Magic Pillow forms a wide, flowery cushion, perfect for a flower bed or planting alongside a path. Its moderate development allows it to be installed near a passage, not far from the house, where it can be admired. This ground cover variety will blend perfectly with ferns, Caucasian forget-me-not, or variegated ground ivy. Hydrangeas are well known for brightening up the north side of houses. Even though they fear limestone, hydrangeas are not strictly speaking ericaceous plants. Combine them with magellanica fuchsias or lilies, or plant spring-flowering bulbs in front of their round silhouette. Enjoy their sumptuous flowering in the garden for a long time and make bouquets for the house!