Groundbreaker® Blush™ Hydrangea

Also in the Groundbreaker® CollectionGroundbreaker® Ruby™ Hydrangea Shop RubyGroundbreaker® Blush™ Hydrangea is a unique panicle hydrangea with a low, spreading habit that creates a flowering groundcover unlike traditional upright varieties. Large white flower panicles cover the plant beginning in midsummer, then gradually develop soft blush pink tones, often giving the plant white and pink tones at the same time. The blooms can last up to 100 days, providing long-lasting color from summer into fall.This Living Creations introduction (Hydrangea paniculata 'LC NO21') is a first-of-its-kind groundcover-style panicle hydrangea, with a naturally spreading habit, making it a great choice for borders, mass plantings, slopes, and the front of landscape beds. It also performs well in decorative containers where its spreading habit can soften the edges. It blooms on new wood, so late winter pruning and cold winter weather are not likely to compromise the seasons flower buds. This compact shrub reaches about 12 inches tall and 24 inches wide at maturity and grows in USDA Hardiness Zones 5-8.Groundbreaker® Blush™ Hydrangea CarePlant Groundbreaker® Blush™ Hydrangea in full sun to partial shade, with afternoon shade helpful in hot southern climates. It grows best in fertile, moist, well-drained soil with compost mixed into the planting area. Slightly acidic to neutral soil is ideal, though panicle hydrangeas are generally more pH adaptable than bigleaf hydrangeas.Water deeply after planting to settle the root ball. Keep the soil evenly moist during the first growing season. Established plants handle short dry spells better, but flowering is stronger with consistent moisture during summer heat. Fertilize in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer, then stop feeding by late summer so new growth can harden before winter. This hydrangea is deciduous, so leaves drop in fall while the dried flower heads can remain for winter texture.Prune Groundbreaker® Blush™ Hydrangea in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut back lightly to shape the mound, or shorten stems more firmly to jump-start fresh, compact growth for the new season. Deadheading is optional and can be done after flowers fade, especially in containers or formal edging.Groundbreaker® Blush™ Hydrangea SpacingSpace Groundbreaker® Blush™ Hydrangea 24 to 30 inches apart for a full groundcover effect. Use 30 to 36 inches between plants for each mound to show separately along a border or walkway. For containers, choose a pot at least 16 inches wide with drainage holes, or use it in a deep window box where the spreading stems can cover the edge.In sunny borders, place Groundbreaker® Blush™ Hydrangea near allium and catmint, which add vertical flowers and share a need for sun and drained soil. In part shade, coral bells and liriope can frame the planting with foliage contrast and similar moisture needs. For containers, use bacopa or lobelia around the edge and provide regular watering to keep the whole planting fresh through summer.

Groundbreaker® Blush™ Hydrangea InformationUSDA Hardiness Zones: 5 - 8Plant Type: BushesLight Exposure: Full Sun, Partial ShadeMature Height: 12 InchesMature Spread: 24 InchesSpacing: 24 Inches