Updated: June 20, 2023

Hydrangeas are popular flowering plants known for their stunning blooms and lush foliage. They come in a variety of sizes, making them suitable for different garden spaces and preferences. When choosing a hydrangea plant, it is essential to consider its size to ensure it fits well in your garden or desired location. In this article, we will explore the various sizes of hydrangeas and help you find the perfect fit for your gardening needs.

Factors Affecting Hydrangea Size

Several factors influence the size of a hydrangea plant. The most critical factors include:

1. Hydrangea Variety

Different hydrangea varieties have distinct growth habits and sizes. Some varieties are naturally compact and stay small, while others can grow into large shrubs or even trees. It is crucial to research the specific characteristics of each variety before making a selection.

2. Growing Conditions

The growing conditions of hydrangeas also play a significant role in their overall size. Hydrangeas thrive in fertile, well-draining soil with adequate moisture and sunlight. Providing optimal growing conditions will encourage healthy growth and help the plant reach its maximum potential size.

3. Pruning

Pruning is an essential practice to control the size and shape of hydrangeas. Regular pruning can promote bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming too leggy or oversized. Different hydrangea varieties have specific pruning requirements, so it is essential to follow the correct techniques to maintain the desired size.

Sizes of Hydrangea Plants

Hydrangeas come in various sizes, ranging from compact dwarf cultivars to tall, towering shrubs. Understanding the different sizes will help you choose the right hydrangea for your garden space. Let’s explore some common sizes of hydrangea plants:

1. Dwarf Hydrangeas

Dwarf hydrangeas are ideal for small gardens, containers, or patio spaces. They have a compact growth habit and reach a maximum height of around 2-3 feet. Despite their small size, dwarf hydrangeas produce an abundance of blooms and offer all the beauty of their larger counterparts.

Some popular varieties of dwarf hydrangeas include:

  • ‘Bobo’ – This dwarf hydrangea features large, white cone-shaped blooms and grows to a height of about 2-3 feet. It is known for its strong stems that prevent the flowers from flopping.
  • ‘Little Lime’ – A compact version of the popular ‘Limelight’ hydrangea, ‘Little Lime’ grows to a height of 3-5 feet and produces beautiful lime-green blooms that turn pink as they mature.
  • ‘Pia’ – ‘Pia’ is a dwarf hydrangea with stunning blue or pink mophead flowers. It has a rounded growth habit and reaches a height of 1-2 feet, making it perfect for small spaces.

2. Medium-Sized Hydrangeas

Medium-sized hydrangeas are versatile plants that can be used as standalone specimens or in mixed borders. They typically reach a height of 4-6 feet and provide an excellent balance between compactness and flower abundance.

Some popular varieties of medium-sized hydrangeas include:

  • ‘Endless Summer’ – ‘Endless Summer’ is a well-known hydrangea variety that produces big, mophead blooms in either blue or pink. It grows to a height of about 3-5 feet and is known for its ability to bloom on both old and new wood.
  • ‘Nikko Blue’ – This classic hydrangea variety features large blue flowers that create a stunning display in the garden. It grows to a height of around 4-6 feet and is an excellent choice for adding a pop of color to your landscape.
  • ‘Tardiva’ – ‘Tardiva’ hydrangea is a late-blooming variety that produces elongated, white flower panicles. It reaches a height of 6-8 feet and adds an elegant touch to any garden space.

3. Large Hydrangeas

Large hydrangeas are perfect for creating focal points or hedges in spacious gardens. These shrubs can reach heights of 8-15 feet and provide an impressive display of flowers when in bloom.

Some popular varieties of large hydrangeas include:

  • ‘Annabelle’ – ‘Annabelle’ hydrangea is a classic white-flowering variety that grows into a large shrub, reaching a height of 4-6 feet. It produces enormous, round flower heads that can sometimes weigh down the branches.
  • ‘Limelight’ – This show-stopping hydrangea features large, lime-green blooms that gradually turn pink as they age. It grows to a height of about 6-8 feet and makes a striking statement in any landscape.
  • ‘PeeGee’ – ‘PeeGee’ hydrangea is a vigorous, tree-like variety that can reach heights of up to 15 feet. It produces large, cone-shaped flower clusters and adds vertical interest to the garden.

Conclusion

Choosing the right size of hydrangea plant is crucial for creating a harmonious garden space. Whether you have limited space or ample room to spare, there is a hydrangea size suitable for your needs. Consider the growth habit, growing conditions, and pruning requirements when selecting a hydrangea variety. By understanding the different sizes available, you can ensure that your hydrangeas thrive and bring beauty to your outdoor oasis.