Hydrangea macrophylla Rosita

The Hydrangea macrophylla 'Rosita' is a fairly old, floriferous, hardy and vigorous variety of hydrangea that has proven itself in both the garden and in flowering pots. It is a fairly compact and rounded bush that produces large, round flower heads from June onwards, with a bright pink hue that turns blue in acidic soil. They bloom abundantly and regularly throughout the summer. Like all hydrangeas, it prefers soil that is low in limestone. A reliable choice, it will find its place in a large pot on the terrace or in shaded flowerbeds.

The Hydrangea macrophylla 'Rosita', obtained in Belgium before 1963, is one of the many hybrids obtained through the cross-breeding of hardy species belonging to the hydrangea family, native to China and Japan. This compact bush has a rounded habit, as wide as it is tall, reaching 1.20 m (3 ft 11 in) in all directions at maturity. In summer, from June to September, its small sterile flowers form round flower heads, reaching up to 15 cm (5.9 in) in diameter and deep pink in colour, with mauve reflections in acidic soil.  They are borne on sturdy stems that are one year or older. The flowering is accompanied by small, firm and lush green foliage, which takes on carmine pink shades in autumn before falling. The leaves are opposite, about ten centimetres in length. They are simple, ovate to elliptical, ending in a pointed tip, and strongly toothed like a saw. Hydrangeas can live for at least 50 years.

The 'Rosita' Hydrangea is one of the best pink varieties, with a very stable colour. It has excellent hardiness and a very vigorous flowering. Hydrangeas are well-known for brightening up the north side of houses. This one will thrive in an east or west exposure that is not too hot, in flowerbeds as well as in hedges. This variety is suitable for cultivation in open ground or in containers, which can be placed on the terrace or near the entrance. Although these plants dislike limestone, they are not strictly plants for heathland soil. Pair them with Magellan fuchsias, annual impatiens, or plant spring-flowering bulbs in front of their round silhouette. Enjoy their sumptuous flowers in the garden or in the house for a long time.