Bud & Bloom Hydrangeas

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:

Eclipse® Bigleaf Hydrangea

Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Bailmacseven’

Eclipse® Hydrangea, the first true dark-leaf mophead hydrangea and offers season-long beauty with intense, dark purple leaves that hold their color, even in warm climates. The striking foliage paired with gorgeous dark purple or cranberry-colored blooms pairs perfectly with anything in the garden and is sure to make a dramatic impact. Maturing at 3-5 feet tall and wide, Eclipse® will stand out, whether used as a focal point in the garden or in decorative containers.

  • Height: 3-5’
  • Width: 3-5’
  • Exposure: Part Shade 
  • Bloom: Dark Purple/ Cranberry
  • Zones: 5-9

Summer Crush® Bigleaf  Hydrangea

Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Bailmacfive’

With a profusion of big raspberry red or neon purple blooms, Summer Crush® brings floral quality blooms to your garden or patio container. Not only is it drop-dead gorgeous, but it is compact so you get a neat, tidy look throughout the summer. Fill a patio container with Summer Crush for a stunning look all season long. Summer Crush® will make your outdoor living space the talk of the neighborhood.

  • Height: 18 – 36”
  • Width: 18 – 36”
  • Exposure: Full Shade to Part Shade 
  • Bloom: Bright Red
  • Zones: 4-9

Originally published on April 29th, 2022. Updated on May 1st, 2025.