Hydrangea macrophylla Benelux (blue)

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Benelux' has long been appreciated for its vigour, cold resistance, and quite exceptional floribundance. It quickly forms a dense and round bush that is covered with flower balls from July to September. The colour of its flowers varies depending on the soil pH. In acidic soil, the flowers bloom in an intense shade of blue. In neutral to slightly alkaline soil, the flowers are pink. This rewarding variety is accessible to all gardeners and never disappoints. Plant 'Benelux' in a border or a semi-shaded hedge, or even in a large pot on a terrace. 

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Benelux' is an excellent Belgian creation by Aimé Gyselinck, dating back to 1949. It is a very hardy, sturdy, and particularly reliable hybrid. Hydrangeas belong to the Hydrangeaceae family and are native to China and Japan. 'Benelux' quickly forms a large rounded bush, supported by a strong branch structure that can withstand the weight of the flowers without weakening, reaching an average size of 1.5 m (4.9 ft) in all directions. From late July to September, numerous well-formed, round inflorescences, 12 cm to 15 cm (4.7 - 5.9 in) wide, appear on wood that is at least one year old. The inflorescences are composed of fertile flowers similar to small buttons, and larger and more showy sterile flowers. In acidic soil, these sterile flowers have an intense blue colour with a white centre. In neutral to alkaline soil, the flowers will have a fresh pink hue, which is quite common in hydrangeas. The flowering period extends over ample and shiny foliage, which is rounded, light green, toothed, and takes on beautiful colours in autumn before falling. The leaves are opposite, reaching a minimum length of about 15 cm (5.9 in). They are simple, ovate to elliptical, ending in a pointed tip, and coarsely serrated. Hydrangeas can live for at least 50 years.

Hydrangea 'Benelux' is a sturdy and faithful plant. Hydrangeas are well known for brightening up the north side of houses. This variety will thrive in a non-burning east or west exposure, both in borders and hedges. It is particularly suitable for free-growing hedges, borders, or as a standalone plant near an entrance. Although these plants dislike limestone, hydrangeas are not strictly speaking ericaceous plants. Pair them with Japanese maples, ferns, Japanese anemones, lilies, foxgloves, annual impatiens, or plant spring-flowering bulbs in front of their round silhouette. Enjoy their magnificent flowering in the garden or in the house for a long time. 

Tip: Don't prune too early! Leave the dried inflorescences on the plant and only cut them after the spring frosts. They effectively protect the new vegetation and future flowers.

Note: The colour of Hydrangea macrophylla flowers varies depending on the soil's pH. Traditionally blue varieties turn pink in neutral or alkaline soil. To maintain a beautiful blue colour, mix ericaceous soil or blonde peat into your garden soil and add aluminium sulphate (slate contains it) or alum stone every spring.