Hydrangea serrata Preziosa - Mountain Hydrangea

Hydrangea serrata 'Preziosa' is a classic variety of hydrangea, but absolutely unique for the festival of colours it offers in the garden until late in the season. Its small round flowers are born creamy white, tinged with pink and green, then blush a solid pink before turning crimson. On this perpetual flowering bush, in perpetual mutation, clear or purplish inflorescences coexist with leaves that change from spring green to bronze and then to red. The entire bush ends in an autumnal symphony, in a range of reds. What more can we say? It is one of the hardiest Hydrangea serrata, and one of the most tolerant to sunlight, although only in the morning.

Originating from the mountains of Japan and Korea, Hydrangea serrata are very hardy plants, less sensitive to late frosts, belonging to the Hydrangea family. Presenting themselves as a very ramified, bushy and round shrub, the 'Preziosa' hydrangea will reach about 1.20m (4ft) in all directions, depending on the growing conditions. It is distinguished, among other characteristics, by its fine, purple stems, its beautiful pointed foliage, purple when young, becoming pale green, then bronze. Its leaves with dark red veins are smaller and more ovate than those of Hydrangea macrophylla and are also carried by purple petioles. They turn red when the plant is exposed to the sun, and in autumn. Its rounded but airy panicles, 8 to 10cm (3.1 - 3.9in) wide, bloom from June and continue to bloom in summer. They constantly change colour, from cream to pink to bright red. The colour of the flowers also depends on whether or not there is aluminum sulphate in the soil: in acidic soil, they will not turn blue but mauve. It should be noted that hydrangeas are robust plants that can live for at least 50 years.

Particularly appreciating cool soils as well as partial shade or morning sun exposure, Hydrangea serrata 'Preziosa' adds a charming touch to the garden and attracts attention for 5 months. Its compact size allows it to be installed near the house, where it will be admired. Hydrangeas are well known for brightening the north side of houses. This one will thrive in a non-burning north, east or west exposure, in flower beds as well as hedges. This variety is particularly suitable for container gardening, which can be placed on the terrace or near the entrance. Even though these plants fear limestone, hydrangeas are not strictly acid-loving plants. Pair them with magellanica fuchsias, annual impatiens, or plant spring-flowering bulbs in front of their round silhouette. Enjoy their splendid flowering in the garden or in the house for a long time.