Hot Red Hydrangea – Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Hot Red’

The Hot Red Hydrangea, Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Hot Red’, a vibrant addition from Japan, is famed for its intense red mophead flowers.

Features ‘Hot Red’ dazzles with its deep, vivid red flowers, blooming from early summer to fall. Unlike many hydrangeas, its colour is less affected by soil pH, maintaining its striking red regardless of the soil acidity or alkalinity. This hydrangea has a moderate growth rate and features large, dark green leaves that provide a beautiful contrast to the bright blooms. The plant does not produce fruits or nuts. Its bark is relatively smooth, and it has a robust root system. The foliage remains healthy green throughout the growing season, and the plant is thornless.

Benefits for Nature Hot Red Hydrangea is a boon for pollinators such as bees and butterflies, drawn to its vibrant flowers. While it doesn’t produce significant nectar, its dense canopy offers shelter to various small wildlife. The plant has low toxicity, making it a safe choice in gardens frequented by pets.

Landscaping and Design In landscaping, Hot Red Hydrangea stands out for its bold red blooms, making it an ideal focal point in garden beds, borders, or as a standalone specimen. This hydrangea is particularly effective in creating vivid colour contrasts and is used to enliven both formal and informal gardens, pairing well with lighter-coloured plants.

Preferred Conditions Hot Red Hydrangea thrives in moist, well-drained soil and prefers partial sun to partial shade. It’s adaptable to various soil conditions. Unlike other hydrangeas, the deep red colour of its flowers doesn’t significantly change with soil pH, although extreme acidity or alkalinity might slightly alter the hue. Regular watering is essential, especially in dry conditions. The plant can tolerate urban pollution to some extent and is somewhat wind-resistant, though it prefers sheltered locations to protect its blooms.

Fun Fact about Hot Red Hydrangea A remarkable aspect of the Hot Red Hydrangea is its resistance to colour change. Where most hydrangeas’ colours vary dramatically with soil pH, Hot Red retains its bold red hue, making it a reliable choice for gardeners seeking consistent colour.

Summary The Hot Red Hydrangea, native to Japan, is unique for its vibrant red flowers, which maintain their colour regardless of soil pH. It’s an excellent choice for adding bold colour to gardens, attracting pollinators, and thriving in well-drained soils with partial sun. This hydrangea stands out for its consistent and striking bloom colour.