Plant Passport
Bigleaf Hydrangea
Hydrangea macrophylla
LightBright
Water7-10d
PetCheck
PP HYDR ANGE AMAC
Issued 2026 · Valid while cared for
Bigleaf Hydrangea
Hortensia
Hydrangea macrophylla
“My flowers are generous, but my leaves wilt fast when a summer pot dries out.”
floweringbalcony friendlystatement plantmedium lightlarge plant
- Light
- Medium light
- Water
- Keep lightly moist
- Pet safety
- Mildly toxic
- This month
- Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the bushy shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Deciduous shrub with broad serrated leaves and large r.
August care tip
Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the bushy shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Deciduous shrub with broad serrated leaves and large r.
Quick Care Summary
- Light
- Medium light
- Water
- Keep lightly moist
- Placement
- Best in a bright sheltered balcony or patio with morning sun and afternoon shade; outside in the Netherlands, harden it off and protect it from cold nights.
- Temperature
- -10–28°C
- Humidity
- moderate
Free printable Plant Passport card
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Plant Passport
Bigleaf Hydrangea
LightBright
Water7-10d
Botanical stake card
- Format
- 150 x 25mm
- Best for
- Slim plant stakes and gift pots
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View holders →Detailed Care Guide
Watering Method
Water when the upper mix starts to dry, then drain fully so roots get air again.
Soil Mix
rich moisture-retentive acidic to neutral shrub mix in a large draining container
Repotting
Repot or refresh the top layer in spring when roots are active.
Pruning
Prune lightly during active growth and remove damaged leaves promptly.
Pot Preference
Use a pot with drainage; choose weight and size to match the plant's top growth.
Fertilizing
Feed lightly from March to September; skip fertilizer in winter or during cool rest.
Draft Sensitivity
Keep above -10 C and away from sharp cold draughts.
Sources consulted
- powo.science.kew.org
- www.aspca.org
- www.rhs.org.uk
Room Placement
Window Direction
East or west filtered light, or a bright spot set back from south glass.
Best Room
a bright sheltered balcony or patio with morning sun and afternoon shade
Monthly Care Calendar
Aug (now)
Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the bushy shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Deciduous shrub with broad serrated leaves and large r.
Sep
Start reducing fertilizer and stretch watering as nights cool. Move Bigleaf Hydrangea closer to bright filtered light before autumn light drops Cue: Deciduous shrub with broad serrated leaves and large r.
Oct
Stop feeding and prepare for heating season. Keep temperature steady and avoid cold drafts Cue: Deciduous shrub with broad serrated leaves and large r.
Nov
Winter risk check: test soil before watering, inspect deciduous shrub with broad serrated leaves and large rounded mophead or , and keep the pot draining freely while growth slows Cue: Deciduous shrub with broad serrated leaves and large r.
Watering Schedule
- Summer
- Every 5 days
- Winter
- Every 10 days
Feel the upper third of the mix and water when it is just starting to dry.
Common Problems
Propagation
stem cuttings in soileasyspring
Propagate during active growth, keep the material warm and lightly moist, and wait for new growth before potting on.
Pests & Diseases
Spider mites
Early signs
Fine speckling, sticky residue or webbing on stressed new growth.
Treatment
Rinse or wipe leaves, isolate the plant and repeat treatment weekly until clear.
Mealybugs
Early signs
Cottony clusters, scale-like bumps or sour smell near the crown and leaf joints.
Treatment
Remove visible pests, improve airflow and check roots if the problem returns.
Buying Tips
Choose Bigleaf Hydrangea with clean growth, firm stems and no pests in the leaf joints.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fun Facts
Flower colour in many cultivars shifts with soil acidity and available aluminium, which is why blue hydrangeas need acidic conditions.
Origin & Natural Habitat
Native to Japan and nearby East Asian regions, often growing in moist woodland edges and coastal slopes.
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