Hydrangea quercifolia Little Honey (‘Brihon’) (oak-leaved hydrangea) £19.99
Position: partial shade, avoiding midday sun Soil: moist, well-drained, moderately fertile, humus-rich soil Rate of growth: average Flowering period: July to September Hardiness: fully hardy A fantastic hydrangea, with leaves shaped like giant oak leaves. The new foliage emerges a bright golden yellow which persists into summer before gradually fading to a chartreuse-green. Large cones of pretty white flowers appear in summer. In autumn the leaves turn dramatic shades of coral, pink, red and burgundy as the flowers slowly fade. A fabulous shrub that gives its best for most of the year. Originally discovered as a sport from Hydrangea quercifolia ‘Pee Wee’ this is also a slow-growing variety that stays compact and does not normally require pruning . It’s best in the middle of a partially shady border, and associates beautifully with most other hydrangeas. It also contrasts well with hot pinks, oranges and vibrant purples. Garden care: Hydrangeas do not like to dry out. In dry weather, soak the roots with a hose and the plant will usually recover. Remove faded flowerh eads in spring after the danger of frosts, cutting back the flowered stems to a strong pair of buds. Take out misplaced or diseased shoots. Mulch young plant s with a well-rotted manure or compost in spring. Best planted in a shady or partially shady border as the leaves can scorch in full sun.