Hydrangea macrophylla 'Bluebird'

Bluebird Bigleaf Hydrangea

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Bluebird' — commonly called Bluebird lacecap hydrangea — is a deciduous shrub valued for its delicate lacecap flower heads, with small blue fertile flowers in the center surrounded by larger pale blue sterile florets in acidic soil, shifting toward pink-lavender in more alkaline soils. Blooms appear in summer above serrated dark green foliage that often develops reddish-purple fall color.

Mature Size:
Width: 4–6 ft
Height: 4–6 ft

USDA Zones: 6a–9b

Form: Rounded, upright shrub

Light: Partial shade to morning sun with afternoon shade

Soil / Water: Moist, well-drained, fertile soil; prefers consistent moisture and organic-rich conditions

Features / Wildlife / Landscape Uses:
Lacecap blooms attract bees and pollinating insects while adding refined summer color to woodland gardens, foundation plantings, cottage borders, and mixed shrub beds. Fall foliage color adds additional seasonal interest.

Care:
Prune only after flowering if needed, since flower buds form on old wood. Maintain acidic soil for strongest blue flower color and protect buds from late spring frost.

Plant type

Flowering Deciduous Shrub

Height

4-6'

Width

4-6'

Hardiness zones

6–9

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Bloom time

Summer

Flower color

Blue

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Attracts

Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Soil

Moist well-drained, Rich

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Container, Foundation Plant, Mass Planting

Shape

Rounded, Upright

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No