Hydrangeas are among the most beloved flowering shrubs, admired for their lush blooms and vibrant colors. With a wide variety of species and cultivars, these plants can enhance any garden with their unique shapes, sizes, and hues. Whether you prefer the classic mophead blossoms of Hydrangea macrophylla or the delicate lacecap varieties, exploring the types of hydrangeas will help you find the perfect addition to your landscape.
Each type of hydrangea has distinct characteristics, from the towering panicle hydrangeas that thrive in full sun to the shade-loving climbing hydrangeas that create stunning vertical displays. Some varieties, like oakleaf hydrangeas, offer spectacular foliage transformations in the fall, while others, such as smooth hydrangeas, produce massive snowball-like blooms that brighten up any space.
Understanding the different types of hydrangeas is key to choosing the right one for your garden. Factors like soil pH, sunlight exposure, and climate conditions all play a role in determining which hydrangea will flourish in your environment. This guide will introduce you to 23 stunning hydrangea varieties, complete with pictures and identification tips, so you can appreciate their beauty and diversity.
Different Types of Hydrangeas
Bigleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla)
Bigleaf hydrangea is the most common and widely recognized type of hydrangea. It features large, rounded flower heads known as mopheads or the more delicate lacecap varieties. One of its most fascinating traits is its ability to change flower color depending on soil pH—acidic soil produces blue blooms, while alkaline soil results in pink flowers. Some popular varieties include ‘Endless Summer’ and ‘Nikko Blue,’ both prized for their vibrant colors and extended bloom time.
To care for bigleaf hydrangeas, plant them in partial shade with well-draining, moisture-retentive soil. Regular watering is essential, especially in hot weather. These hydrangeas are best suited for USDA hardiness zones 5–9. Adding aluminum sulfate can help maintain blue flowers, while lime application encourages pink hues.
Panicle Hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata)
Panicle hydrangeas are known for their cone-shaped flower clusters, which bloom in summer as creamy white and gradually transition to pink or reddish tones in the fall. They are more tolerant of full sun and colder climates than other hydrangeas, making them a versatile choice for many gardens. Popular varieties include ‘Limelight’ and ‘Pinky Winky,’ both appreciated for their showy, long-lasting blooms.
These hydrangeas thrive in well-draining soil with full to partial sun exposure. They require moderate watering and benefit from annual pruning in late winter or early spring to encourage robust growth. Panicle hydrangeas are hardy in USDA zones 3–8, making them ideal for colder regions.
Smooth Hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens)
Native to North America, smooth hydrangeas are loved for their large, round, white flower heads that resemble snowballs. They are more cold-hardy than bigleaf hydrangeas and provide a beautiful, classic look in any garden. Popular varieties include ‘Annabelle’ and ‘Incrediball,’ known for their enormous, sturdy blooms.
Smooth hydrangeas thrive in partial to full sun and prefer rich, well-draining soil. They require regular watering, especially in dry conditions. Pruning them back to the ground in late winter or early spring encourages vigorous growth and larger flowers. These hydrangeas are best suited for USDA zones 3–9.
Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia)
Oakleaf hydrangeas stand out with their unique, oak-shaped leaves and elongated clusters of white flowers that fade to pink as they age. In the fall, their foliage transforms into stunning shades of red, orange, or burgundy, adding year-round interest to the landscape. Popular varieties include ‘Snow Queen’ and ‘Ruby Slippers.’
These hydrangeas prefer well-draining, slightly acidic soil and thrive in partial shade. They are drought-tolerant once established and require minimal pruning. Oakleaf hydrangeas are well-suited for USDA zones 5–9, making them a great choice for various climates.
Climbing Hydrangea (Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris)
Unlike other hydrangeas, climbing hydrangeas grow as vines, attaching themselves to walls, trellises, or fences with aerial rootlets. They produce stunning white, lacecap-style flowers that create an elegant display in summer. While they take time to establish, once mature, they grow vigorously and require little maintenance.
For best results, plant climbing hydrangeas in partial to full shade with well-draining, fertile soil. They need consistent moisture but are relatively low-maintenance once established. Hardy in USDA zones 4–8, these hydrangeas add vertical interest to any landscape.
Mountain Hydrangea (Hydrangea serrata)
Mountain hydrangeas resemble bigleaf hydrangeas but are smaller and more delicate, featuring lacecap flowers. They are more cold-hardy than Hydrangea macrophylla, making them an excellent choice for colder climates. Popular varieties include ‘Tuff Stuff’ and ‘Bluebird,’ known for their resilience and vibrant blooms.
These hydrangeas prefer partial shade and well-draining, humus-rich soil. Regular watering is essential, and mulching helps retain moisture. Mountain hydrangeas are best suited for USDA zones 5–9 and require minimal pruning to maintain their natural shape.
Hydrangea involucrata
Hydrangea involucrata is admired for its unique flower structure, featuring soft, bud-like formations that gradually open into delicate blooms. The petals are thin and airy, often displaying shades of bluish-purple or white, adding an elegant charm to any garden. A well-known variety, ‘Yoraku Tama,’ is particularly cherished for its refined beauty.
This species thrives in mild climates and prefers moist, well-draining soil. It flourishes in partial shade, requiring regular watering, especially during dry spells. Hydrangea involucrata is best suited for USDA zones 6–9.
Hydrangea aspera (Rough-leaved Hydrangea)
Hydrangea aspera is easily distinguished by its soft yet slightly rough-textured leaves. It produces large, eye-catching flower clusters with a striking contrast—tiny bluish-purple flowers at the center surrounded by prominent white blooms. This dramatic effect makes it a favorite among gardeners. Notable varieties include ‘Macrophylla’ and ‘Villosa.’
Thriving in partial shade, this hydrangea requires consistently moist, well-draining soil to maintain its lush appearance. It grows best in USDA zones 6–9.
Hydrangea heteromalla (Woolly Hydrangea)
Hydrangea heteromalla is a hardy and adaptable species, valued for its ability to withstand colder climates. It produces clusters of creamy white flowers that gradually take on a pinkish hue as they mature, adding seasonal interest to the landscape. Due to its vigorous growth, it is often used as a foundation plant in woodland gardens.
This species thrives in well-draining, moist soil and adapts to various light conditions, from full sun to partial shade. It is well-suited for USDA zones 4–7.
Hydrangea radiata (Silverleaf Hydrangea)
Hydrangea radiata is best known for the distinctive silvery-white underside of its leaves, which creates a shimmering effect when caught in the breeze. Its delicate lacecap-style white flowers add an airy, elegant touch to shaded garden areas, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
This hydrangea flourishes in partial shade, preferring humus-rich, well-draining soil. It requires consistent moisture to thrive and is well-adapted to USDA zones 5–8.
Hydrangea serratifolia
Native to South America, Hydrangea serratifolia is a vigorous climbing hydrangea capable of attaching itself to walls, trees, or other structures. Its lush green foliage provides excellent coverage, making it a great choice for vertical gardens or shaded trellises. The creamy to pale yellow flowers have a subtle fragrance, adding a touch of elegance to their surroundings.
This species thrives in well-draining, moist soil and prefers partial shade to full sun. Due to its adaptability, it is well-suited for USDA zones 7–10, where it can flourish in mild to warm climates.
Hydrangea davidii
A rare species, Hydrangea davidii is primarily found in mountainous regions of Asia. It features delicate lacecap-style flower clusters in shades of blue-purple or white, creating a soft, understated beauty. Though less commonly cultivated, it is valued for its resilience and unique appearance.
This hydrangea thrives in cool, moist environments and requires well-draining soil rich in organic matter. It prefers partial shade and is best suited for USDA zones 6–9, where it benefits from consistent moisture and protection from intense heat.
Hydrangea sikokiana
Endemic to Japan, Hydrangea sikokiana stands out with its deeply lobed leaves, giving it a distinctive foliage texture unlike other hydrangea species. It produces small, delicate white or pale pink flowers arranged in broad, spreading clusters, making it a striking addition to shaded gardens.
This species requires moist, well-draining soil and a cool, shaded environment to thrive. It is best suited for USDA zones 6–9, where it can flourish in woodland gardens or other sheltered locations.
Hydrangea angustipetala
A rare and fragrant lacecap hydrangea, Hydrangea angustipetala is prized for its delicate, thin petals in shades of white or soft green. Unlike many other hydrangeas, this species is known for its subtle yet pleasant scent, making it a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts.
It prefers a temperate, humid climate with well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. Partial shade is ideal for maintaining its delicate blooms. This hydrangea is best suited for USDA zones 7–10, where it can thrive with regular moisture and protection from harsh sunlight.
Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Mariesii’
A highly decorative variety of Hydrangea macrophylla, ‘Mariesii’ features stunning lacecap blooms that can appear in shades of blue or pink, depending on soil pH. Its deep green, glossy leaves with serrated edges provide a lush backdrop for its showy flowers, enhancing any garden setting.
This hydrangea flourishes in partial shade, preferring consistently moist, well-draining soil. It is best suited for USDA zones 6–9, where it benefits from moderate temperatures and regular watering to maintain its vibrant blooms.
Hydrangea integrifolia
Hydrangea integrifolia, also known as the Entire Leaf Hydrangea, is a climbing evergreen species native to Taiwan and the Philippines. Unlike most hydrangeas, this variety features glossy, leathery leaves measuring up to 15 cm in length, providing year-round greenery. It climbs using aerial roots, making it perfect for covering walls, trellises, or large trees.
This species prefers partial to full shade, thriving in consistently moist, well-draining soil. It requires regular watering and protection from harsh sunlight to maintain its lush foliage. Best suited for USDA zones 7–10, Hydrangea integrifolia is an excellent choice for shaded gardens and vertical landscapes.
Hydrangea chinensis
Hydrangea chinensis is a lesser-known species, yet it captivates with its delicate lacecap flowers and elegant growth habit. Native to East Asia, it produces clusters of small, pale blue to lavender flowers that bloom gracefully against a backdrop of deep green foliage.
This species prefers cool, humid environments with well-draining soil and partial shade. It requires consistent moisture to thrive and benefits from organic mulch to retain soil humidity. Suitable for USDA zones 6–9, Hydrangea chinensis is an excellent choice for woodland gardens and shaded borders.
Hydrangea paniculata ‘Grandiflora’ (PeeGee Hydrangea)
Hydrangea paniculata ‘Grandiflora’, commonly known as PeeGee Hydrangea, is celebrated for its large, cone-shaped flower clusters. These blooms emerge in pure white and gradually transition to a soft pink as they mature, adding dynamic seasonal interest to the landscape. This versatile plant can be pruned into a small tree or allowed to grow as a large, free-form shrub.
One of the hardiest hydrangeas, it thrives in full sun to partial shade and is remarkably tolerant of cold temperatures. It prefers well-draining soil and regular watering but can adapt to a variety of conditions. Best suited for USDA zones 3–8, this hydrangea is a resilient and elegant choice for many gardens.
Hydrangea quercifolia ‘Snowflake’
A stunning oakleaf hydrangea variety, Hydrangea quercifolia ‘Snowflake’ is known for its unique double-flowered blooms. The layered petals create a lush, full appearance, making this variety particularly eye-catching. In autumn, its large, lobed leaves transform into rich shades of burgundy and deep red, enhancing the seasonal beauty of any garden.
This hydrangea thrives in partial shade and prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter. It requires regular watering to maintain its health and beauty. Adapted to USDA zones 5–9, it is a perfect addition to woodland gardens and shaded borders.
Hydrangea arborescens ‘Annabelle’
Hydrangea arborescens ‘Annabelle’ is one of the most famous hydrangea varieties, prized for its enormous, snowball-like white blooms. These flower heads can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter, creating a dramatic visual effect in the garden. Despite their size, the branches remain sturdy, supporting the weight of the abundant blossoms.
This hardy shrub is well-suited for various climates and can withstand tough conditions, including cold winters. It prefers partial shade to full sun and thrives in moist, well-draining soil. Ideal for USDA zones 3–9, ‘Annabelle’ is often used as a focal point in landscape designs.
