Collection of 2 interspecific hydrangea collection

We offer you a collection of two hydrangeas like no other, called interspecific hydrangeas or garland hydrangeas, which flower, unlike classic varieties, not only at the end of their branches, but also along the stems, at the axils of the leaves. They bloom from June to September, and their fading inflorescences remain decorative until late in the season. The white lace garlands of the 'Runaway Bride' variety blend, for the gardener's delight, with the large florets of 'French Bolero', whose colour varies from soft pink to pale blue depending on the soil. Of modest stature, but graceful and lightweight, these bushes are excellent candidates for ornamenting a terrace or a small garden.

The collection consists of:

- 1 Hydrangea 'Runaway Bride': voted plant of the year 2018 at the Chelsea Flower Show, this bush reaches about 1 m (3ft) in all directions. Its small plate-like inflorescences are composed of a few tiny fertile florets in the shape of buds surrounded by numerous larger sterile florets beautifully dentate on the edges. In slightly acidic to neutral soil, they will turn pink as they fade. The foliage turns yellow in autumn before falling.

- 1 Hydrangea 'French Bolero': awarded in Germany and Nantes, this selection forms a bush of 1.20 m (4ft) in all directions. It offers wide flattened inflorescences with large colorful florets on the periphery. In slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.5 to 7), they will turn pale lavender pink. In acidic soil, on the contrary (pH <6.5), their color will be pale blue. Before fading, these florets take on pretty pastel yellow-green tones.

The ability of these two hybrid hydrangeas to bloom along the stems comes from their parent, the Hydangea scandens, a botanical species native to Japan, which forms small bushes with a spreading or trailing habit. All these bushes belong to the hydrangea family. The flowers appear from July to October, at the end of the branches, but also at each lateral bud present on these branches. Their deciduous foliage turns yellow in autumn before falling. In spring and summer, the leaves are dark green. They are small for hydrangeas, single, oval to elliptical in shape, with a pointed tip and dentate edges.

Hydrangeas are sturdy and faithful plants that live and bloom for many years in the garden. These bushes are well known for brightening the north side of houses. Garland hydrangeas are wonderful terrace and balcony plants that will also thrive in flower beds. This duo truly deserves a prime location, near the house or close to the entrance. Although these bushes dislike limestone, hydrangeas are not strictly ericaceous plants, they tolerate neutral soils. Combine them with fuchsias, lilies, and liriopes, or plant spring-flowering bulbs in front of their round silhouette. Enjoy their beautiful flowers for a long time, in the garden or in bouquets at home.