The Endless Summer® Summer Crush® Bigleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Bailmacfive’ PP30,359) is a stunning addition to any garden or patio. This compact deciduous shrub boasts a profusion of vibrant raspberry red or neon purple blooms that will captivate you all summer long.
Compact Size and Versatility
One of the most appealing features of the Summer Crush® Hydrangea is its compact size. Maturing at just 18 to 36 inches tall and wide, this hydrangea is perfect for smaller spaces, borders, and patio containers. Its neat and tidy habit throughout the season makes it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners.
Despite its small stature, Summer Crush® delivers a powerful punch of color. The large, rounded flower heads are densely packed with florets, creating a striking display. This hydrangea is also exceptionally cold hardy and disease resistant, especially to wilt.
Reblooming for Extended Enjoyment
Another remarkable trait of the Summer Crush® Hydrangea is its ability to bloom on both old and new growth. This means you can enjoy gorgeous flowers consistently all summer long, as flower buds are produced not only in the fall but also in spring and summer.
The flowers are borne on strong, upright stems above the handsome foliage of dark green glossy leaves. As the blooms age, they take on a vintage charm, making them perfect for dried arrangements.
Soil Requirements and Color Variation
Summer Crush® prefers loamy soil, but you can amend clay with organic matter to improve drainage or add peat and compost to sandy soils to retain moisture. This hydrangea thrives in moist but well-drained soil with a pH ranging from acidic to alkaline.
One of the most beautiful traits of the Summer Crush® Hydrangea is its ability to change bloom color based on soil pH. Acidic soil (pH below 6.0) will produce blue hydrangea blooms, while alkaline soil (pH above 6.0) will result in pink flowers. You can adjust the color to your preference by adding garden lime to raise the pH for pink blooms or soil sulfur to encourage blue blooms.
Planting and Care
When planting your Summer Crush® Hydrangea, choose a location with partial sun, meaning 4 to 8 hours of sunlight per day with some dappled shade. In northern regions (Zones 4-5b), this hydrangea can handle up to 6 hours of morning sun, while in southern areas (Zones 8-9), aim for a maximum of 2 hours of morning sun to prevent leaf and bloom burn.
Water your Summer Crush® Hydrangea deeply once a week, ensuring the soil remains moist but not soggy. Applying a 2-inch layer of mulch can help retain moisture and protect the plant in extreme temperatures. Fertilize in early spring with a slow-release or balanced fertilizer for best results.
Pruning is not necessary for this reblooming hydrangea, but you can prune after flowering to encourage bushier growth and rejuvenate older plants.
Companion Plants and Landscape Uses
Summer Crush® Hydrangea pairs beautifully with hostas, ornamental grasses, and dogwoods. Its compact size makes it ideal for mass plantings, borders, foundation plantings, low hedges, and patio containers. The stunning blooms also make excellent cut flowers for fresh or dried arrangements.
Bring the Magic of Summer Crush® to Your Garden
With its compact size, vibrant reblooming flowers, and adaptability to various soils and sun exposures, the Endless Summer® Summer Crush® Bigleaf Hydrangea is a must-have for any garden enthusiast. Its ability to change bloom color adds an element of magic and customization to your landscape.
By following the planting and care guidelines, you can enjoy the beauty of Summer Crush® Hydrangea for years to come. Whether used as a focal point in containers, mass planted for a stunning display, or incorporated into mixed borders, this compact hydrangea is sure to become a cherished addition to your garden.