Hydrangea Nikko Blue

Introduction Hydrangea macrophylla 'Nikko Blue' is a beloved deciduous shrub known for its large, vibrant blue mophead flowers and lush green foliage. A cultivar of the bigleaf hydrangea, native to Japan, it’s a fast-growing, low-maintenance plant that adds stunning color and texture to gardens. This guide provides a detailed description, reasons to plant, grow zones, planting instructions, and care tips to ensure success with this classic hydrangea. Detailed Description 'Nikko Blue' is a multi-stemmed, deciduous shrub with a rounded, bushy growth habit, reaching 4–6 feet (48–72 inches) in height and width within 2–3 years. Its dark green, ovate leaves, 4–8 inches long, create a dense, lush appearance. The shrub produces large, mophead flower clusters, up to 6 inches in diameter, from early to late summer (June–September). In acidic soils (pH 5.5–6.5) with aluminum present, flowers are a vivid blue; in neutral to alkaline soils (pH above 7), they shift to purple or pink. As blooms age,