Minus icon Plant Type Shrubs
Minus icon Height Medium 2'
Minus icon Spacing Plant 2-5' apart
Minus icon Bloom Time Early Summer to Late Summer
Minus icon Sun / Shade Mostly Sunny to Mostly Shady
Minus icon Growing Zones 5-9
Minus icon Soil Type Normal, Acidic, Clay
Minus icon Water Needs Medium
Minus icon Sold In Plantable Pots (3.5x3.5x4")
These varieties have been proven in trials around the world to be vigorous and easy to grow. Best of all, Proven Winners are known to be absolutely covered with vibrant, long-blooming flowers.
Hydrangea macrophylla 'Wee Bit Grumpy® '
Hydrangea macrophylla native to Japan and China, has been cultivated worldwide since its European introduction in the 1700s. Known for its large, showy blooms in either mophead or lacecap forms, this rounded shrub features broad, dark green leaves and flowers that famously change color based on soil pH. These shade-tolerant shrubs excel in borders, under trees, and in the shadows of buildings, providing summer through autumn color. Their dried flowers offer winter interest in the garden and are popular for indoor decorating, while fresh blooms are traditional in wedding arrangements and cut flower displays.
Best grown in rich, medium moisture, well-drained soil in part shade. Tolerates full sun only if grown in consistently moist soil. While they appreciate some sunlight for optimal blooming, afternoon sun can lead to wilting and leaf damage especially in warmer climates. Avoid deep shade as it reduces flowering. Blooms on the previous year's growth (old wood) and often again in the summer on new growth. Generally need little pruning. If needed, prune immediately after flowering by cutting back flowering stems to a pair of healthy buds. Prune out weak or winter-damaged stems in late winter/early spring. In northern areas, may benefit from planting in a protected location and winter mulch. A slow-release fertilizer recommended for shrubs and trees may be applied once in the spring. Spread around the drip line of the branches, not the base. Lightly cover the fertilizer with soil to activate and water well. In late autumn or early spring, aluminum sulfate can be added to acidify the soil (for blue flowers), and lime to produce a more alkaline soil (for pink flowers).
Our plants are grown in 3.5x3.5x4” plantable pots. Made from 100% biodegradable coconut husk fibers (coir), these pots have tremendous advantages over plastic pots. With better air exchange, this "breathable" pot fosters robust root growth and reduces transplant shock since you can plant the pots directly in the ground. The pot naturally becomes part of the soil on its own over time—no composting required—and since they're made from a renewable resource that requires very little energy, they're earth-friendly too!
We offer a 100% guarantee for all our perennials to reach you in good condition and to grow. If you're not satisfied, we'll reship or refund immediately. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have questions or concerns—we share your passion for gardening and want your new plants to thrive in your border!
We use custom, earth-friendly packaging to make sure your order arrives in great condition, and we ship based on the best planting time for your growing zone (see the approximate dates below), unless otherwise indicated at checkout. If you wish, you can indicate a specific ship date during checkout.
