These hydrangeas are perfect for garden spots that don’t get a lot of sun.
However, when talking about shade-loving hydrangeas, sunlight is still part of the equation.
We’ve gathered a list of the best shade-loving hydrangeas, the bulk of which falls within theHydrangea macrophyllaspecies.
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Here are the best hydrangeas for the shadiest spaces in your garden.
Here are some hydrangeas to consider.
Best French Hydrangeas for Shade
French hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla) are also called bigleaf hydrangeas.
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There are mophead varieties with large round blooms and lacecap varieties with flat clusters of tiny flowers.
The color of the blooms depends on thepH of the soil.
Give them morning sunlight to bloom.
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Too much sun and they may scorch.
Plant them in part shade to full shade and they’ll reward you with gigantic blooms.
‘Blaumeise’
Doggett calls this lacecap variety “a showstopper when in flower.”
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Endless Summer BloomStruck
For blooms that keep on coming, opt for thisrepeat bloomer.
It features vibrant-hued, long-lasting, medium-sized mopheads with small leaves and sturdy stems to create a tidy-looking shrub.
‘Firelight’
You’ll find long-lasting blooms well into the summer with this Doggett-approved pick.
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‘Lilacina’
If you’re looking for a classic beauty, Doggett says this is it.
“[It’s] a vigorous grower with large lacecap blooms in lilac to pure blue.”
TheAnnabelle hydrangeaproduces blooms that resemble snowballs and can reach 10 inches in diameter.
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These hydrangeas are easy to grow and can tolerate cold temperatures.
Give them regular water in partial shade or full sun if the soil stays consistently moist.
Cone-shaped blooms change color as they fade.
It needs less water than other hydrangea varieties but does require well-draining soil.
They have the benefit of strong stems so drooping blooms don’t become an issue.
This pop in of hydrangea doesnt like full shade as it needs some sun to produce blooms.
Give it more sun in cool climates and a more shade in warm climates.
‘Ruby Slippers’
The white blossoms of theRuby Slippersvariety turn deep pink as they mature.
Its dark green foliage darkens to pink, scarlet, then burgundy in the fall.
This compact hydrangea grows to 3 to 4 feet tall.
Climbing hydrangea (Hydrangea anomala) is a vine that likes full, partial, or dappled shade.
Aerial rootlets help it climb to 50 feet, but it can also be used as a ground cover.
It has dark green and yellow to cream variegated leaves and white blooms in spring and summer.
Miranda can take full shade and prefers rich, well-draining soil.
“Choosing the right location for your hydrangea is key,” says Clay.
They’ll need some sun (filtered or direct morning light) and rich, fertile soil.
This helps prevent fungal diseases from developing."
Hydrangea Companion Plants For Shade
Selecting the best hydrangea variety for shade isn’t a one-and-done decision.
Companion plants should be considered as well.
Clay suggestshostas, ferns, and heuchera.
For added texture and interest, she suggests going with a dwarf conifer.
If you’re looking for a more structural route, McConnell saysboxwoodsare a classic choice.
