Mophead Hydrangeas

Facts About Mophead Hydrangeas

Mopheads are among the most popular types of hydrangea, much loved for their beauty and curb appeal. Also known as hortensia, these flowers get their name from their large, globe-like flower heads made from clusters of small florets. They are a subtype of bigleaf hydrangeas, which is a variety whose flowers bloom as purple, pink, or blue depending on soil pH.

Mophead Hydrangea Varieties

We have numerous mophead hydrangea for sale. Below are three of our most popular:

Endless Summer Hydrangea: One of the most popular mophead varieties, Endless Summer has an exceptionally long bloom time from early summer through Thanksgiving in most areas. This exciting plant produces large, showy blue or pink flowers.

1. Hardiness: USDA zones 4 to 9

2. Size: 3-4 feet tall x 4-6 feet wide

3. Growth rate: Moderate

4. Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade

5. What makes Endless Summer Hydrangea unique:

a) Reblooming.

b) Resilient and versatile.

Annabelle Hydrangea: This variety is known for its white flower heads, which are about the size of a snowball, and its ability to rebloom late in the season. It’s an easy-to-care-for variety that’s perfect for flower beds, rain gardens, and borders. Annabelle hydrangea’s flowers don’t change color, like some hydrangea varieties.

1. Hardiness: USDA zones 4 to 9

2. Size: 3-5 feet tall x 3-5 feet wide

3. Growth rate: Fast

4. Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade

5. What makes Alice Hydrangea unique:

a) Large, gorgeous white blooms

b) Reblooms late in the season.

Nikko Blue Hydrangea: The standard by which other blue mophead hydrangea are judged, this hydrangea produces large, rounded flowerheads with rich, blue florets. Nikko Blue’s colorful followers flourish throughout the plant, not just on top.

1. Hardiness: USDA zones 6 to 9

2. Size: 5-6 feet tall x 5-6 feet wide

3. Growth rate: Moderate

4. Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade

5. What makes Nikko Blue Hydrangea unique:

a) Large, deep blue blooms.

b) Prolific bloomer.

Requirements for Mophead Hydrangeas to Grow

When to plant: Plant mopheads during mild weather in the spring or fall to avoid environmental stress.

Where to plant: Broadly, mophead hydrangeas are hardy in USDA zones 5 through 9, although you’ll find varieties that can thrive in cooler temperatures.

Sunlight: Mopheads prefer partial shade but can do full sun in cooler regions. In areas with hot summers, plant your mopheads in a space with afternoon shade.

Soil: The flower color of some mopheads depends on soil pH. If you plant these varieties in acidic soil, the shrub’s flowers turn blue, but if you use alkaline soil, their flowers bloom pink. Regardless of pH level, plant mopheads in fertile, well-draining soil that stays moist.

Water: Water once a week during the growing season. In windy, dry, or especially hot weather, water more often. Be careful not to overwater because all hydrangeas are susceptible to root rot. Also, steer clear of wetting the leaves in the afternoon as this can result in scorching.

Fertilizer: Mopheads don’t always require fertilizer. Check your variety before applying—and remember adding fertilizer can change soil pH.

Pruning: One reason mopheads are a favorite among gardeners is that they don’t require pruning unless the shrub is overgrown or unsightly.

Want to know more about hydrangea but need help figuring out where to start? Read our complete guide to hydrangeas. It has everything you need to pick the perfect hydrangea for your garden.

Common Questions About Mophead Hydrangeas

Does a Mophead Hydrangea bloom on old or new growth?

Different hydrangea varieties will have different blooming habits, so it’s important to know what type of mophead you’re growing. Most varieties will bloom on new wood, though the Endless Summer has the unique ability to produce blooms on both old and new wood.

When should I plant my hydrangeas?

It’s best to plant hydrangea in the early spring or fall—this gives the plant enough time to acclimate itself ahead of the blooming season or colder weather.

Can I transplant my hydrangea?

Hydrangea plants can be transplanted, but it’s recommended you perform the transfer during the plant’s dormant season to avoid stress while the plant is actively growing.

More Hydrangea Resources

Caring for Hydrangeas: Our Top 4 Tips for Success

Hydrangeas: The Complete Guide for Months of Blooms

Types of Hydrangeas: Which Hydrangea Should You Plant?