Hydrangea macrophylla Deep Purple Dance

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Deep Purple' is a recent creation that stands out for its abundant flowering, the good durability of its flowers, and their perfect shape. It blooms in summer with a profusion of sumptuous purple-violet inflorescences, which almost conceal its beautiful foliage. It is perfect for making fresh or dried bouquets. Its round and bushy habit is well suited for cultivation in large containers or in shaded beds, in non-calcareous soil.

'Deep Purple' is one of the many hybrids obtained by cross-breeding hardy species belonging to the Hydrangeaceae family, originally from China and Japan. 'Deep Purple' is part of a series of cultivars selected based on demanding criteria of abundant flowering and disease resistance. This bush has a rounded habit, as wide as it is tall, reaching 1.2m (4ft) in all directions. In summer, its small fertile and sterile flowers, with striking dimorphism, form round, dome-shaped inflorescences, in a purple colour with violet or garnet reflections. The flowering lasts for a long period. The flowers are carried by sturdy stems, even at one year old. The flowering is accompanied by deciduous dark green foliage. 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.

'Deep Purple' has excellent hardiness and a very vigorous flowering. Hydrangeas are well known for brightening the north side of houses. This one will thrive in a non-scorching east or west exposure, in beds as well as in hedges. This variety is suitable for cultivation in open ground or in containers, which can be placed on a terrace or near an entrance. Even though these plants are not fond of limestone, they are not strictly speaking acid-loving plants. Pair them with Magellan fuchsias or annual impatiens, or plant spring-flowering bulbs in front of their round silhouette. Enjoy their sumptuous flowering in the garden or in the house for a long time.

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