Hydrangeas are extremely vigorous, long-lived shrubs that produce extravagant blooms throughout summer and into fall. They are one of the more popular ornamental garden plants in large part due to their large, showy flowers that come in a variety of colors. Hydrangeas love rich, well-draining soil and require consistent moisture without over-watering. Most types enjoy afternoon shade and protection from the intense summer heat.
Fort Collins Nursery has many exciting varieties of hydrangea that were bred for season-long beauty and brilliant color. Here are a few of our recommendations:
BloomStruck® Hydrangea
Hydrangea macrophylla ‘PIIHM-II’
This reblooming hydrangea stuns in the garden with its classic puffball flower clusters, averaging 3.5 – 5 inches across. While blue in the grower’s pots, the blooms shift to a gorgeous rosy pink in our local soils due to pH levels. Bright magenta stems hold the flower clusters above glossy, dark green foliage. Plants should be deadheaded in spring, with structural pruning limited to dead or damaged stems only. The root crown should be protected in winter with 8–12 inches of mulch.
- Height: 3-4’
- Width: 4-5’
- Bloom: Pink
- Zones: 4-9
Dream Cloud® Hydrangea
Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Bailaceight’
Dream Cloud® is a workhorse of a white-flowered macrophylla, whose blooms fade far less than those of other varieties while still reblooming consistently throughout the season. With strong stems and a mature size of 3–4 feet, Dream Cloud® makes an excellent focal point, mid-size hedge, or container plant. Plant in moist, rich soil and protect old stems in winter with 8–12 inches of mulch.
- Height: 3-4’
- Width: 3-4’
- Bloom: White
- Zones: 5
Originally published on April 29th, 2022. Updated on May 1st, 2026.