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Big Daddy Hydrangea

13 Reviews
| 1 answered question
$20.99
  • Produces massive, eye-catching blooms that are pink if planted in alkaline soils and blue while grown in acidic soils
  • Matures to 5-6' wide by 5-6' tall
  • Hardy in USDA Zones 6 - 9
  • Plant in partial shade to shade
Pot size

Description

The Big Daddy Hydrangea from the Southern Living Plant Collection produces massive eye-catching blooms that are impossible to ignore. Like other Macrophylla hydrangeas, these vibrant mophead bloom clusters are pink if planted in alkaline soils and blue while grown in acidic soils. Expect an extensive initial bloom in early summer, followed by slightly smaller reblooms through fall. Additionally, the Big Daddy proves to be an impressive addition to cut flower arrangements.

When the Big Daddy isn't in bloom, large serrated leaves will still draw attention. Their glossy surface reflects sunlight beautifully.

Soil alkalizers, such as limestone or hardwood ash, can be used to raise the pH to the desired level, while acidifiers, such as peat moss, can be used to lower the pH.

The Big Daddy Hydrangea reaches a mature size of 5-6' H x 5-6' W. It's guaranteed to shine as a hedge, border, specimen, or container plant.

*The Big Daddy Hydrangea is a deciduous/semi-evergreen plant and will go dormant during the winter months. When this plant is ordered during the Fall/Winter expect seasonal foliage decline(discoloration, spots, leaf drop) or the plant to arrive completely dormant.*

Big Daddy Hydrangea Care

Hardy in USDA Zones 6-9. In addition, this deciduous shrub will go dormant every winter in every zone.

Plant in Partial or Filtered Sun for best results. The Big Daddy Hydrangea can't handle extended direct sun exposure, however, too little sun will result in a decreased bloom cycle.

The Big Daddy Hydrangea needs regular watering after planting, around 3-4 times a week for the first few months. During this time, check the soil frequently to ensure that your plant isn't drying out or staying soggy. Afterward, you can water less frequently, 2-3 times per week as needed. Once your plant has a couple growing seasons under its belt, it will only need watering during, particularly dry periods.

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Then reapply as instructed by your brand of fertilizer, traditionally in May, and July.


Check out a year-long snip and clip garden from Southern Living Plants

Take a look at the Big Daddy Hydrangea's little sister, the Dear Dolores Hydrangea

Care & Use

Getting Started: Understanding Your New Plant

Review your plant's information on our website or the tag that comes with it. Be mindful of sunlight preferences, soil type, and spacing needs.

Our plants are adaptable but grow best in the correct USDA Zones. Click here to learn more about your USDA Zone.

Planting Instructions

Dig a Hole

First, dig a hole three times the width of the root ball of your plant. This makes it easier for the root system to spread out quickly. Dig the hole deep enough that your plant will sit level with or slightly above the ground around it.

Amend Your Soil

Mix your native soil with rich gardening soil to provide extra nutrients and support plant growth. If your soil is clay-heavy, we recommend mixing your native clay soil with equal parts of Pine Bark mulch to improve drainage and the overall breathability of your soil.

Place Your Plant

Examine the roots. If they appear tightly bound, gently coax them apart; this ensures they can spread into the new soil. Place your plant in the hole so the top of the rootball is even with the surrounding soil—Backfill around it with the amended soil mixture. The roots need access to oxygen for your plant to thrive, so do not cover the rootball; place soil around it.

Mulch Your Plants

Top the soil beneath your plant with 3-4 inches of mulch to help it retain moisture. Be careful not to cover the rootball - your new plants roots need access to oxygen.

Water Your Plant

Soak the plant with a hose afterward to hydrate the plant, as well as get the soil and mulch situated. Develop a regular watering schedule based on your plant's needs and local weather patterns. Remember, over watering is just as, if not more, harmful than under watering.

Spacing Recommendations

Big Daddy Hydrangea Spacing Recommendations

Space Your Big Daddy Hydrangea 4 feet apart for a seamless planting. Otherwise, plant them 6+ feet apart to leave space between shrubs.

  • Scientific Name
    Hydrangea macrophylla 'Big Daddy'
  • Hardiness Zone
    6, 7, 8, 9
  • Sun Exposure
    Part Sun to Part Shade
  • Evergreen or Deciduous
    Deciduous
  • Features
    Flowering, Reblooming, Shade Tolerant
  • Feature Color
    Blue, Green, Pink
  • Uses
    Container, Foundation Planting, Hedge, Specimen
  • Water Needs
    Medium
  • Bloom Season
    Summer

Growing Zones : 6, 7, 8, and 9

Southern Living Plants

A collection of shrubs, trees, and perennials selected by plant experts to thrive in the heat of the South. Find traditional varieties like camellias mixed with new landscape favorites like agapanthus. These varieties have been bread to tackle landscape challenges specific to the region.

Big daddy hydrangea landscape
Southern Living Plant Collection

Big Daddy Hydrangea

From $20.99

The Big Daddy Hydrangea from the Southern Living Plant Collection produces massive eye-catching blooms that are impossible to ignore. Like other Macrophylla hydrangeas, these vibrant mophead bloom clusters are pink if planted in alkaline soils and blue while grown in acidic soils. Expect an extensive initial bloom in early summer, followed by slightly smaller reblooms through fall. Additionally, the Big Daddy proves to be an impressive addition to cut flower arrangements.

When the Big Daddy isn't in bloom, large serrated leaves will still draw attention. Their glossy surface reflects sunlight beautifully.

Soil alkalizers, such as limestone or hardwood ash, can be used to raise the pH to the desired level, while acidifiers, such as peat moss, can be used to lower the pH.

The Big Daddy Hydrangea reaches a mature size of 5-6' H x 5-6' W. It's guaranteed to shine as a hedge, border, specimen, or container plant.

*The Big Daddy Hydrangea is a deciduous/semi-evergreen plant and will go dormant during the winter months. When this plant is ordered during the Fall/Winter expect seasonal foliage decline(discoloration, spots, leaf drop) or the plant to arrive completely dormant.*

Big Daddy Hydrangea Care

Hardy in USDA Zones 6-9. In addition, this deciduous shrub will go dormant every winter in every zone.

Plant in Partial or Filtered Sun for best results. The Big Daddy Hydrangea can't handle extended direct sun exposure, however, too little sun will result in a decreased bloom cycle.

The Big Daddy Hydrangea needs regular watering after planting, around 3-4 times a week for the first few months. During this time, check the soil frequently to ensure that your plant isn't drying out or staying soggy. Afterward, you can water less frequently, 2-3 times per week as needed. Once your plant has a couple growing seasons under its belt, it will only need watering during, particularly dry periods.

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Then reapply as instructed by your brand of fertilizer, traditionally in May, and July.


Check out a year-long snip and clip garden from Southern Living Plants

Take a look at the Big Daddy Hydrangea's little sister, the Dear Dolores Hydrangea

Pot size

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  • 2 Gallon
  • 3 Gallon
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