Hydrangea serrata Cap Sizun - Mountain Hydrangea

Hydrangea serrata 'Cap Sizun' is a particularly endearing hydrangea. This variety offers a beautiful flowering in pink or blue, sometimes bi-colour, depending on the soil. Its large, light, lace-like inflorescences appear twice, at the beginning and end of summer, above magnificent foliage that reddens with the sun and cold weather. Its faded flowers retain their beauty. Its fairly compact size adapts well to cultivation in large containers or in shaded beds, in non-limestone soil.

Originating from Japan and Korea, Hydrangea serrata are very hardy plants, belonging to the Hydrangeaceae family. Presenting as a very ramified, bushy and round shrub, 'Cap Sizun' will reach about 1m (4ft) in height and 1.5m (5ft) in width, depending on growing conditions. It is distinguished by its dark green leaves, smaller and more ovate than those of Hydrangea macrophylla. They take on a red hue when the plant is exposed to the sun, and in autumn. Its flat, airy panicles, 12cm (5in) wide, bloom from the beginning of June and fade in pretty shades. The sterile flowers, with very dentate edges, surround fertile button-shaped flowers. In August-September-October, new inflorescences appear on a now deep purple foliage. This variety can be planted under more continental climates. Hydrangeas are robust plants that can live at least 50 years.

It particularly appreciates moist soils and a semi-shaded exposure. Hydrangeas are well known for brightening up the north side of houses. This one will thrive in a north, east or west exposure that is not scorching, in group plantings and hedges. This variety is particularly suitable for container cultivation, which can be installed on a terrace or near a doorway. They are not strictly ericaceous plants. Combine them with magellanica 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.