Damon Mcknight
Hydrangeas are a popular addition to gardens in Australia and around the world. They are known for their versatility, thriving in a mix of sun and shade, though the amount of shade they can tolerate depends on the type of hydrangea. While they require some sunlight to survive, hydrangeas can grow in full shade during the hottest part of the day, as long as they receive some morning sun. In this paragraph, we will explore the conditions in which hydrangeas grow best, specifically focusing on their ability to grow in shaded areas.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Shade tolerance | Hydrangeas can tolerate some shade but require at least a few hours of morning sun. They grow best in partial shade or dappled light, especially in hotter climates. |
| Soil | Hydrangeas prefer moist, well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. |
| Climate | Hydrangeas can thrive in most climates except arid regions, where they may struggle due to a lack of moisture. |
| Watering | Hydrangeas require consistent moisture, especially during their active growth and flowering periods. |
| Fertilizer | In shaded areas, hydrangeas can benefit from a balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied in early spring. |
| Varieties for shade | Oakleaf hydrangeas, Climbing hydrangeas, Bigleaf hydrangeas, Mountain hydrangeas, Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle', Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris, Hydrangea paniculata, and Mophead varieties. |
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What You'll Learn
Hydrangeas require sunlight
In general, hydrangeas grow best in full sun (more than six hours of sunlight) to part sun (four to six hours of sun). However, they can handle some shade, especially during the hottest part of the day, as long as they receive morning sun. This is especially true in hotter climates, where too much direct sunlight can be detrimental.
For example, the Oakleaf hydrangea, native to the United States, can grow in full sun to partial shade but prefers some afternoon shade. Climbing hydrangeas, unique for their ability to cling to surfaces, are also more shade-tolerant and can even grow well in areas with only dappled light. However, they will flower best with some sunlight.
Bigleaf hydrangeas, such as the 'Let's Dance Can Do' cultivar, perform well in more shade than sun. The North American Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle' is another variety that can tolerate deep shade, especially in drier conditions.
In Australia, the mophead variety of hydrangea grows best in filtered shade or a combination of morning sun and afternoon shade. Hydrangea quercifolia and H. paniculata can tolerate more sun but should be sheltered from hot westerly afternoon sun in the summer.
Therefore, while hydrangeas do require sunlight, the amount needed depends on the specific variety and growing conditions.
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Morning sun is best
Hydrangeas require some level of light to perform photosynthesis and produce energy. A spot that receives dappled sunlight or a few hours of morning sun is ideal. They will not thrive in heavy all-day shade, especially where there is no air movement around their leaves, as this can lead to problems like powdery mildew on the foliage.
The dream scenario for most hydrangeas is a mix of sun in the morning and shade in the afternoon. Varieties that love these conditions include bigleaf hydrangeas (H. macrophylla), oakleaf hydrangea (H. quercifolia), and mountain hydrangea (H. serrata). Oakleaf hydrangeas, in particular, can grow in full sun to partial shade but do best with some afternoon shade.
In terms of soil conditions, hydrangeas like moist, well-drained soil. In shady spots, these conditions are more likely to be maintained as the area is protected from the harsh sun. As long as they get a regular hit of sunlight in the morning, hydrangea plants will be happy spending the rest of the day in the shade.
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Types of hydrangeas and their shade tolerance
Hydrangeas are known for their shade tolerance, but they still require some sunlight to survive. A spot that receives dappled sunlight or a few hours of morning sun is ideal for most hydrangeas. While they can be in full shade during the hottest part of the day, they won't flower as much and their stems will be weaker.
Bigleaf Hydrangeas (H. macrophylla)
Bigleaf hydrangeas are among the varieties that can tolerate more shade. The 'Let's Dance Can Do' cultivar, for example, can flower even when planted in more shade than sun. They are also known for their large, exaggerated blooms, which are especially appealing in shady spots.
Oakleaf Hydrangeas (H. quercifolia)
Oakleaf hydrangeas are quite hardy and can grow in full sun to partial shade but do best with some afternoon shade. They get their name from their dramatic oak-shaped leaves and are the best choice for shady conditions. They can be grown in all four seasons and have giant flowers in summer.
Mountain Hydrangeas (H. serrata)
Mountain hydrangeas are another variety that grows well in partial shade. They are native shrubs with foliage similar to oak trees.
Climbing Hydrangeas (H. anomala)
Climbing hydrangeas are unique in their shade tolerance. They can tolerate more shade than most other hydrangeas and even grow well in areas with only dappled light. They are also versatile as they can be used as ground cover or climbing vines.
Smooth Hydrangeas (H. arborescens)
Smooth hydrangeas are the way to go if you have a little more sunlight. They are larger shrubs that work well for hedges, and they are the most heat-hardy of the hydrangeas. The Annabelle hydrangea, for example, produces large blooms and can tolerate cold temperatures.
Seaside Serenade® Hamptons
This hydrangea variety is low-maintenance and cold-tolerant. It will reach its full size quickly and does not need much pruning.
Snow Queen
'Snow Queen' produces large white clusters of flowers that can reach up to 8 inches long. The bright white flowers stand out against their green oak-leaf-shaped leaves, and the foliage darkens to bronze in the fall.
Light-O-Day®
Light-O-Day® is loved for its variegated foliage with creamy white borders. It produces beautiful lacecap blossoms with tiny pink or blue fertile flowers surrounded by white sterile flowers. It can be planted as a foundation or border hedge or in a container for patios or porches.
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Soil conditions in the shade
Hydrangeas like moist, well-drained soils, and shaded spots help maintain these conditions as they are protected from the harsh sun. Shaded hydrangeas can benefit from a balanced, slow-release fertiliser.
Hydrangeas require consistent moisture, especially during their active growth and flowering periods, so regular and reliable watering is crucial for their well-being. They also love moisture, so consider adding some water-retaining crystals to the soil. After planting, mulch the surface of the soil to a depth of about 3–5 cm.
Hydrangeas thrive in well-drained, organically rich soil, so dig in additional compost and cow manure at planting. They grow well in light to moderate shade, and some will even cope in deep shade. They can be in full shade during the hottest part of the day, as long as they are getting some morning sun. This is especially true in hotter climates.
However, if they don't get enough sun, they won't flower as much and their stems tend to be weaker and floppier. Too much shade can result in fewer flowers and weaker stems. They will still require some sunlight throughout the day, and bright spots with indirect light are ideal.
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Hydrangeas in containers
Hydrangeas are versatile plants that can be grown in containers or pots. This allows you to place them on porches, patios, or decks, adding elegance and colour to your doorstep. The mobility of containers also means you can adjust the location of your hydrangeas as the season changes.
When choosing a container, select a weatherproof material that can withstand outdoor elements. The container must be large enough for the roots to grow—at least 16 to 20 inches in diameter and deep. Avoid using topsoil or soil dug from your yard as they are heavy and do not provide adequate drainage. Instead, use a regular potting mix for containers. Leave a gap of 1-2 inches between the top of the soil and the rim of the container to prevent soil loss when watering. If your container doesn't have drainage holes, be sure to drill some to prevent water from standing around the roots and causing rot.
Regarding sunlight, most hydrangeas prefer partial shade, with a mix of morning sun and afternoon shade. They can tolerate full shade during the hottest part of the day, as long as they receive some morning sun. However, they may produce fewer flowers and have weaker stems without sufficient sunlight.
Some recommended hydrangea varieties for containers include:
- Hydrangea paniculata 'Little Lime'
- Hydrangea paniculata 'Bombshell'
- Hydrangea paniculata 'Little Quick Fire'
- Hydrangea macrophylla 'Mini Penny'
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Frequently asked questions
Hydrangeas can grow in full shade but they won't thrive as they would in partial shade or full sun. They require some sunlight to perform photosynthesis.
Climbing hydrangeas are unique in their shade tolerance and can even grow well in areas with only dappled light. Oakleaf hydrangeas are another variety that does well in shady conditions.
Hydrangeas grow best in full sun (more than 6 hours of sun) to part sun (4-6 hours of sun). They can be in full shade during the hottest part of the day as long as they get some morning sun.
The best location for hydrangeas is in partial shade or dappled light, particularly under trees where they can receive sunlight while being protected from extreme heat.
Hydrangeas in shaded areas can benefit from a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. They also require consistent moisture and well-drained, nutrient-rich soil.
