Hydrangea, macrophylla ‘Nikko Blue’

Hydrangea ‘Nikko Blue’ is a superb shrub for accent, specimen, or border; desired for their splendid, abundant, showy blue globe-shaped flower clusters. This shrub displays handsome foliage on boldly branched, mounded form. Grows in full sun, partial sun, and shade, and is fast-growing. Hydrangeas benefit from some shade in the middle of the afternoon, especially in hotter regions. Few plants offer such beautiful Dutch blue coloring as Hydrangea when grown in acidic soils. The dried flower heads are often used in flower arrangements. Hydrangeas are among the showiest of summer and autumn flowering woody plants. Nikko Blue will have the best blue flower color by adding an acid fertilizer. Blooms on old wood, so prune only after flowering.

  • Excellent for shady areas
  • A must for the butterfly garden
  • Fast-growing deciduous shrub

Plant Details +

Botanical Hydrangea macrophylla 'Nikko Blue'
Common Name bigleaf hydrangea
Height 4-6'
Spacing 4-6'
Hardiness 5-9
Exposure Full Sun to Part Shade
Foliage Rich Green
Flower Blue
Bloomtime Midsummer

Planting/Care Instructions +

Planting Instructions: May be planted in moist, rich, well-drained soil. Dig a hole large enough to encompass the roots without bending or circling. Set the plant in place so the crown (part of the plant where the root meets the stem) is about 1-2 inches below the soil surface. Planting deeper can cause the roots to rot. Cover with soil to the original soil surface and water thoroughly. Once the shrub is placed in the hole, tamp the soil down around it and water. It is a good idea to mulch your hydrangea to help the soil to retain moisture. 'Fertilize with a granular fertilizer in March, May, and July. Follow package instructions. Prune after flowering to remove spent blooms.

Pests or Diseases: No serious insect or disease problems. Some susceptibility to bud blight, bacterial wilt, leaf spot and mildew. Aphids are occasional visitors.