Hydrangea macrophylla Buchfink

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Buchfink' is a hardy, floriferous, and colourful bush hydrangea, which is quite rare in cultivation. Its flat inflorescences are formed by one or two rows of large florets ranging from fresh pink to raspberry pink, depending on the soil, surrounding a beautiful cluster of bluish to pinkish fertile florets adorned with almost white stamens. In very acidic soil, the flowering will be more mauve, even violet, or indigo blue. This generous flowering extends over beautiful glossy dark green foliage. This bush is perfect in beds or hedges, in soft sunlight or partial shade.

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Buchfink' is a Swiss horticultural creation dating back to 1987 belonging to the 'Teller' series, characterised by plate-shaped inflorescences. It comes from various hardy species of the Hydrangeaceae family, native to China and Japan. It is a fast-growing bush, with a taller than wide bushy habit, reaching 1.5m (5ft) in height by 1.2m (4ft) in width by the age of 10, depending on growing conditions. It flowers from July to September. Its inflorescences, measuring 15 to 17cm (6 to 7in) in diameter, have variable colours depending on the soil pH. In the presence of limestone, they tend towards intense pink. In very acidic soil, deep blue prevails. The colour of the inflorescences varies in beauty over time, fading into a paper-like texture. The flowering is accompanied by deciduous, shiny dark green foliage that falls in autumn. The leaves are opposite, reaching a minimum length of 10cm (4in). They are simple, ovate to elliptical, ending in a pointed tip, with serrated edges. Hydrangeas can live for at least 50 years.

'Buchfink' is an undemanding and adaptable bush. Considered more natural and less artificial-looking than the ball-shaped hydrangeas, it will easily find its place in shaded beds or against the house. Hydrangeas are well-known for brightening the north side of buildings. This variety will thrive in a non-scorching east or west exposure, both in beds and hedges. It adapts to a wide variety of soils, as long as they are always slightly moist and properly fertilised. Although they do not appreciate excessive limestone, hydrangeas are not strictly ericaceous plants. Pair them with Magellan fuchsias, or lilies. Alternatively, plant spring-flowering bulbs in front of their round silhouette. Enjoy their magnificent flowering in the garden or indoors for a long time.

Note: The colour of macrophylla hydrangea flowers varies depending on the soil pH. Traditionally blue varieties turn pink in neutral or slightly alkaline soil. To maintain a beautiful blue colour, mix ericaceous soil into your garden soil and apply aluminium sulphate (found in slate) or alum stone every spring.