13 Blue Hydrangea Varieties: Unleash The Blue Magic - Garden For Indoor (2024)

Many gardeners love decorative plants like hydrangeas for their beautiful ball-like inflorescences in different shades. These lush shrubs can turn any garden into a paradise.

There are many hydrangeas varieties and species, but blue hydrangea is the most common. Interestingly, the bright color of its flowers is due to the presence of aluminum in the soil, meaning that this natural wonder is not the result of breeding.

Hydrangea blue is an excellent plant for adding blue to your garden. This huge green shrub is part Hydrangeaceae family and boasts beautiful spherical blue inflorescences.

But why are they blue, you ask? It’s all thanks to the aluminum found in acidic soils. The plant absorbs the chemical element through its roots and transports it to its blooms, turning them a lovely shade of light blue to blue.

And the best part? The flowering season starts in spring and lasts until the first frost, so that you can enjoy these beautiful blooms for months.

Features And Characteristics of Blue Hydrangea

Like other types of hydrangea, this variety with blue inflorescences will delight you with its abundant and long-lasting flowering.

It’s even called the endless summer hydrangea because it’s covered in delicate and fragrant flowers until the first frosts. These flowers can range in color from sky blue to purple.

The blue hydrangea can be grown in a garden or a greenhouse. It’s a decorative shrub with bright green heart-shaped leaves and rarely grows taller than 3.3 feet (1 meter).

However, some perennials can reach around 6.6 feet (2 meters). The plant has large, hemispheric inflorescences on its branches that can get about 10-14 inches (25-35 centimeters) in size.

Not only is the blue hydrangea valued for its excellent decorative qualities, but it’s also known for its cold and frost resistance.

While it’s not particularly fussy, it needs protection from strong winds and direct sunlight and only thrives with adequate moisture and nutrients in the soil.

Popular Blue Hydrangea Varieties

When choosing a blue hydrangea, it’s important to note that this shrub doesn’t come in tree or panicle varieties.

So the only option you have is the large-leaf blue hydrangea, which is particular because it can accumulate aluminum in its trunk from acidic soil.

This gives the green petals a beautiful azure hue during the flowering period.

Various blue hydrangeas are available today, each with unique characteristics, sizes, and maintenance requirements.

So, it’s essential to research and learn about the specific variety you’re interested in before bringing one home to your garden.

Then, by understanding the care needs of your new plant, you can ensure it will thrive and bloom beautifully year after year.

1- Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Mariesii Perfecta’ Syn ‘Blue Wave’

Introducing Blue Wave, Holland’s famous and enchanting blue hydrangea variety. This perennial will transport you to a serene and picturesque landscape with its broad, large leaves and strong stem.

• Blooming in July and August, this variety will mesmerize you with its azure inflorescences. The flowers appear only on last year’s shoots, adding to their unique charm.
• The petals have a shade that varies from snow-white to heavenly color, making them a perfect addition to any garden. The shade is determined by the genetic features of the plant, as well as the composition of the soil and compliance with the rules of maintenance.
• Standing at the height of 3 feet, the Blue Wave is a sight to behold in any garden. However, it does not tolerate severe frosts well and should be covered for the winter.
• The blue wave hydrangea prefers a site with moist soil and good semi-shade, making it a perfect addition for any gardener looking for a stunning and low-maintenance perennial.

2- Hydrangea Blueberry Cheesecake

Introducing the Blueberry Cheesecake variety of hydrangea – a unique and visually stunning addition to any garden.

This low-growing perennial stands at the height of 2.5 to 4 feet and boasts branched shoots and inflorescences that can reach up to 8 inches in diameter. Its flat-shaped petals are sure to catch the eye and add a touch of elegance to any landscape.

But what truly sets this variety apart is its ability to adapt to its planted soil. The inflorescences will take on a stunning blue-purple hue if the soil is acidic.

On the other hand, if the soil is alkaline, the flowers will bloom in a vibrant pink-red color. And the cherry on top?

The core of the flowers is usually a creamy yellow, adding yet another layer of intrigue and charm to this captivating plant.

And just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, the Blueberry Cheesecake hydrangea also features leaves that remain green in the spring and summer before taking on a beautiful reddish hue in the fall.

However, like any other shrub, it is critical to protect it from the cold during winter to ensure its survival and continued beauty.

Add some flavor and flair to your garden with the Blueberry Cheesecake hydrangea – a plant that truly has it all.

3- Hydrangea Macrophylla ‘mini Penny’

Introducing Mini Penny, the perfect addition to your small garden plot. This compact and petite hydrangea variety stand at only 2-3 feet in height, making it an excellent choice for those with limited space. But don’t let its size fool you – Mini Penny packs a punch regarding resistance to pests.

To see Mini Penny at its best, it requires plenty of sunlight. But with the right amount of light, Mini Penny will thrive and provide a dense cover of inflorescences from midsummer to September.

And for those who want to ensure their Mini Penny will bloom just as beautifully next year, it is essential to provide proper shelter for the shrub during winter.

Mini Penny offers a harmonious balance of small size, beauty, and durability. Add this lovely and low-maintenance shrub to your garden, and enjoy its beauty all season long.

4- Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Zorro’

I’m excited to introduce you to Hydrangea ‘Zorro,’ a unique and striking addition to any landscape. This hydrangea is distinguished by its erect, black stems that bear flattened, blue inflorescences from July to September.

The inflorescences are composed of small fertile flowers in the center and sterile flowers on the outside, made of well-developed bracts.

‘Zorro’ reaches up to 6 feet in height and boasts large dark green leaves, making it a magnificent and imposing presence in any garden.

But the contrast between its dark stems and blue flowers sets it apart. It’s an actual work of art and has earned the prestigious Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).

This plant is hardy and easy to care for; it prefers a sunlit area and well-drained soil. Add Hydrangea ‘Zorro’ to your garden and enjoy the contrast between its dark stems and its blue flowers, making a bold statement all season long.

5- Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Nachtigall’

It is a truly mesmerizing plant, blooming between July and October, and bearing flat inflorescences that are sure to leave a lasting impression.

The flowers are rich and intense dark blue and slightly purple in acidic soil. We appreciate its deep and striking hue.

However, in neutral soil, the color of the flowers is more of a dark pink-purple, which is also an attractive option.

The inflorescences measure up to 6 inches in diameter and consist of tiny fertile florets surrounded by large sterile florets, bearing four large bracts.

This hydrangea forms an intermediate-sized bush, reaching up to 5 feet in height. Add this variety to your garden and enjoy its beautiful blooms for months to come.

6- Hydrangea ‘Blue Deckle’

Hydrangea ‘Blue Deckle’ is the epitome of elegance and refinement, with beautiful, soft blue blooms in flat inflorescences.

The sterile florets consist of four delicate, tapering bracts, adding an extra layer of delicacy to its already stunning appearance.

In addition, this is a repeat-flowering plant, blooming first in June-July and then again in the summer, in August-September, giving you a continuous display of beauty all season long.

At maturity, this hydrangea reaches 6.5 feet in height and spread. And we also appreciate its foliage which turns a lovely purple color in the fall.

Its delicate blooming makes it the perfect choice to integrate into a cottage garden or romantic garden setting. So add Hydrangea ‘Blue Deckle’ to your landscape, and enjoy its refined beauty all season long.

7- Mountain Hydrangea ‘Bluebird’

A captivating addition to any garden that blooms from June-July until September. The inflorescences are composed of small fertile flowers in the center, dark blue, and fertile florets on the outside, white-light blue.

We appreciate its nuances of color and the contrast it creates. The flowers take a rather mauve-pink tint if the ground is neutral or calcareous, adding to its versatility.

This shrub measures up to 4 feet in height, and its leaves take beautiful red tints in the fall. It prefers cool, shady situations and rich, humusy soil.

It’s no surprise that it has been awarded the Award of Garden Merit by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).

8- Hydrangea involucrata

The Hydrangea involucrata is a small hydrangea that comes from Asia. This unique variety offers flattened inflorescences that are sure to catch the eye, with hues that vary between light blue, mauve, and white.

The inflorescences are made up of small, fertile flowers that are often blue-mauve and very clear, and larger sterile flowers that are almost white.

Not only is the Hydrangea involucrata beautiful, but it is also versatile. It can thrive in slightly calcareous grounds and prefers cool and shaded situations.

The leaves are also a standout feature, with their embossed and velvety texture adding an extra layer of intrigue and beauty.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to add the Hydrangea involucrata to your garden and experience its unique beauty and versatility.

9- Hydrangea Jogasaki – Fireworks Hydrangea

The Fireworks Hydrangea will light up your garden all season long. With its unique terry-like petals and iridescent color, Jogasaki is sure to turn heads and leave a lasting impression.

Imagine a shower of small stars falling from the sky, and you have a pretty good idea of what Jogasaki’s flowers look like.

Moreover, these delicate blooms can be lilac-blue and pink-purple, adding an extra layer of visual interest and allure.

And the best part? Ball-like inflorescences appear not only on last year’s branches but also on new branches, ensuring a long-lasting and abundant display of beauty.

But that’s not all – Jogasaki also boasts a long blooming period, providing a sweet fragrance and a visual delight from June to September.

So add this dazzling and unique variety to your garden and watch it light up your landscape all summer long.

10- Hydrangea Macrophylla ‘kompeito’ Star Gazer

This variety is a unique and captivating double-flowered hydrangea that was bred at the Kamo Iris Garden in Kakegawa City, Japan.

Kompeito boasts a beautiful combination of red, blue, and white colors, making it a standout addition to any garden.

One of the best things about Star Gazer is its ability to adapt to the soil’s acidity. In alkaline soil, it produces stunning pink flowers, while in acid soil, it produces beautiful blue flowers. And with a little bit of know-how, it’s easy to grow the color of flowers you desire.

• For pink flowers, mix granular soil, humus, and vermiculite in a ratio of 4:4:2.
• For blue flowers, mix granular soil, peat moss, and vermiculite in a ratio of 4:4:2, and apply solid fermented oil cake without the bone meal.

It is also essential to prune this variety after flowering by cutting off two nodes below the flower. Late pruning should be done by late July to prevent the plant from flowering the following year.

11- Hydrangea macrophylla Cityline Mars

Cityline Mars is the original and unique hydrangea variety that will add a splash of color and intrigue to your garden.

This culture is unlike any other blue variety, as its inflorescences boast a captivating multicolor display.

Imagine petals that are decorated with a combination of light blue, pale pink, and sometimes even purple and violet. The result is a visual feast that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Ramars prefers a semi-shaded area and well-moistened soil. This low-growing shrub is known for its distinctive frame layering of inflorescences on the stems, making it an elegant and sophisticated addition to any landscape.

And its multiple petals with festooned edges add an extra touch of refinement and beauty. Add Ramars to your garden and enjoy a unique and colorful display that will leave a lasting impression.

12- Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Blaumeise’

Blaumeise is a hardy and robust hydrangea, growing up to 5 feet tall and with oval, toothed leaves.

This beauty bears inflorescences up to 6 inches wide in the summer, consisting of small fertile flowers in the center, surrounded by sterile florets on the outside.

The flowers are a beautiful soft blue color, slightly lighter in the center, making for a breathtaking display.

This modern variety has made people rediscover and fall in love with flathead hydrangeas all over again. Vigorous, resistant to the cold, and very floriferous, Blaumeise is the perfect addition to any garden.

This shrub forms a large cushion of 5 feet in height and 6 feet in spread and produces an abundance of beautiful flower heads in the center, surrounded by well-opened florets in the periphery, from July to September.

They will be of an intense blue in acid soil or pink if the ground is neutral or slightly chalky. Blaumeise is a sure value and will be the perfect addition to any garden.

13- Hydrangea Hopcorn Blue

A newcomer to the world of garden plants, Hopcorn Blue, has captured the hearts of many gardeners. This variety gets its name from the unique shape of its inflorescences, which are collected in hemispheres and resemble popcorn balls.

But Hopcorn Blue isn’t just a pretty face – it’s also a tough cookie. This variety is highly resistant to pests and fungal diseases, making it a low-maintenance option for any gardener.

And despite its small size, it’s not afraid of a little cold weather and doesn’t require compulsory covering for winter.

Hopcorn Blue prefers a well-lit area and will reward you with its beautiful blooms from July to September.

Add this unique and hardy plant to your garden and enjoy its colorful and eye-catching display all summer.

Planting Blue Hydrangeas for a Stunning Garden

If you want to add the stunning beauty of blue hydrangeas to your garden, the key to success lies in choosing the perfect planting location and adequately caring for your plants after transplanting.

First, selecting a spot that receives partial shade and has well-drained soil is essential.

Once planted, be sure to regularly water your hydrangeas during hot weather and provide them with necessary nutrients through the use of fertilizers.

Regular pruning of branches will also help to maintain their shape and size.

As winter approaches, take the necessary steps to protect your hydrangeas from the cold, such as covering them with mulch.

Additionally, pay attention to protecting them from pests and diseases through regular preventative treatments.

With the proper care, your blue hydrangeas will thrive and bring a burst of blue color to your garden.

Finding the Perfect Spot and Ground Preparation for Bule Hydrangeas

Are you hunting for the perfect spot to plant your blue hydrangea plants? Listen up, my friend, because I’ve got a tip: avoid open, windy areas like the plague. Trust me, you don’t want your sky-hugging hydrangeas to get a bad hair day.

Now, I know you’re probably thinking, “But Arifur, it’s summer! The sun is shining, and I want to plant my hydrangeas now!” Well, hold your horses.

Almost all blue hydrangeas are a bit camera-shy, they don’t like too much sunlight. So, you’ll want to find a spot that’s more on the shady side. Of course, it all depends on the variety of perennials you’re working with.

But, it’s not just about the location. These blue beauties are quite divas when it comes to soil.

• They want it well-moistened and well-drained, and they’ll accept nothing less.
• So, before you even think about planting, add some humus, peat, and a bit of river sand to the soil.
• You can use ready-made mixtures or make your own special blend.

And if you don’t do that, you can’t blame me when they start throwing shade.

Unleashing The Burst of Blue Beauty: Blue Hydrangeas Care After Planting

Listen up, my fellow garden enthusiasts, because I’m about to drop some knowledge on you. Feeding is key to getting those blue hydrangeas to flower like there’s no tomorrow.

I recommend feeding those beauties at least three times a season. And let me tell you, it’s not just a matter of sprinkling some fertilizer on top of the soil, oh no.

You’ve got to get down and dirty and apply that fertilizer under the bush so that it can get the maximum amount of nutrients.

Now, you’re probably thinking, “this all sounds great, but I can’t remember all this.” Worry not, my friend. I’ve got you covered.

• First up, you will want to feed them in May. I recommend a mixture of superphosphate, urea, and potassium sulfate.
• Next up, during the formation of buds, go for two parts superphosphate and 1 part potassium sulfate.
• And finally, at the end of summer, any ready-made organic fertilizer will do the trick.

And don’t forget that your plant needs plenty of moisture during the flowering period. Water those hydrangeas at least three times a week during the summer, but ensure you avoid stagnant fluid. Regular watering will help those inflorescences acquire that elusive azure color by helping to achieve the correct acidity of the soil.

Cutting for Color: The Art of Pruning Blue Hydrangeas

Attention all green thumbs, have you been ignoring your blue hydrangea shrubs? They might seem innocent, but these large-leaved plants can quickly get out of control if left to their own devices.

That’s why monitoring their shape and pruning them regularly is a must. It will help them maintain their shape, remove any weak, withered, or broken branches, and make room for new growth.

Now, you might wonder, “when should I be pruning?” Fear not, my gardening friends; I’ve got your back. It’s recommended to prune your blue hydrangeas three times a year.

• First up, in April, before the flowering season begins, to get rid of some old shoots.
• Then, when new branches grow in May, prune them down to 5 buds.
• And finally, in the fall, after the flowering period, remove the inflorescences and prepare the plant for the winter.

Regular pruning will not only keep your hydrangea bush looking beautiful and compact, but it’ll also prolong its life and ensure abundant flowering. Don’t be afraid to take scissors to those plants; It will only improve them.

Keep Your Blue Hydrangeas Cozy in Winter

If you’re growing those big, beautiful, large-leaved hydrangeas, you might wonder if they need special protection during the cold months. And the answer is, yes, they do.

Woody and panicle hydrangeas can handle the winter weather just fine. Still, blue hydrangeas are a bit more delicate, and they may not be able to withstand severe cold and temperature fluctuations.

So, what’s a gardener to do? The solution is to use an air-dry cover. But, tie the perennial branches together, wrap the whole plant with horticultural fleece, and then make a frame net around the hydrangea.

And what’s the point of this? Well, this will protect it from the wind and the snow, and it’ll also help to keep it warm.

Once your frame is in place, fill it with dry leaves. And for extra protection, cover the shrub with a moisture-resistant material.

But before you do any of that, I recommend dipping in a solution of water mixed with a fungicide as a preventative measure to protect it from pests and diseases.

This helps provide the roots and lower portions of the plant with a protective barrier against harmful organisms.

Trust me, following these steps, will help your azure hydrangea thrive during the winter and be ready to bloom again in the spring.

Multiplying Your Blue Hydrangeas: Tips and Tricks

Are you ready to expand your blue hydrangea collection? These beautiful plants can be propagated in more ways than one.

Cuttings, offshoots, division, and even seeds can all be used to create new plants. But let’s get down to the nitty-gritty, shall we?

• Cuttings with 2-3 buds are the way to go; immersing them in water and setting them in the shade. Before planting, remember to dip the sprout in the rooting hormone. Once they’ve given roots, transplant them into the ground and cover them with jars. After new leaves appear, you can remove the jars in a month.
• Planting of the offshoots is another option, just create hollows around the perennial at the beginning of the season, lay the side shoots, and cover it with the earth. By October, you can dig up the offshoots and separate them for further replanting.
• Shrub division is also an option, just dig out an overgrown healthy bush and divide it into parts, each of which can be transplanted to a new place.
• And last but not least, germinating seeds is the longest and most energy-consuming way to propagate the plant, but it’ll be worth the wait as in 2 years, you will have a new blue hydrangea plant.

Diseases And Pests of Blue Hydrangea

Don’t worry; most varieties of blue hydrangea are pretty tough and can handle pests and diseases like champs! But it’s always a good idea to watch for any signs of trouble. Just give your shrubs a quick inspection every now and then to ensure everything looks good.

But it’s good to know that the biggest threats to blue hydrangeas are spider mites, aphids, and gall nematodes.

1. Spider mites can make the leaves of your shrub turn yellow and wilt, and you might see spider webs on the back of the leaves.
2. Aphids can make the leaves fall off and turn yellow.
3. And gall nematodes can cause the root system to rot, making the shrub stop growing and wither.

And remember different types of rot, powdery mildew, ring spots, and other diseases that can affect hydrangeas.

It’s a good idea to carry out fungicide and insecticide treatment from time to time to keep your blue hydrangea looking beautiful and healthy.

So keep an eye out, and you’ll have a beautiful blue hydrangea all year round!

Why Your Blue Hydrangea Won’t Bloom: The Top Reasons

There are a few common reasons why blue hydrangeas might not bloom.

• One reason could be a lack of moisture. If the tips of the leaves are dry, that’s a sure sign that your hydrangea needs more water.
• Another reason could be too much sunlight. If your hydrangea is getting too much sun, the leaves might turn yellow and have white spots.
• And lastly, a lack of nutrients can also cause a hydrangea to fail to bloom. Not feeding your hydrangea enough or not feeding it at the right time can weaken the plant and prevent it from developing and growing correctly.

Sometimes, a combination of factors can cause a hydrangea not to bloom. For example, if you have clay soil, it might need more of the nutrients your hydrangea needs to thrive.

Extra care can keep your blue hydrangea healthy and blooming if you see wilting leaves or other warning signs.