Hydrangea macrophylla 'Glowing Embers'

Glowing Embers Bigleaf Hydrangea

Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Glowing Embers’ is a deciduous shrub grown for its large mophead flower heads and compact, rounded habit. This bigleaf hydrangea typically blooms on old wood from late spring into summer, with flower color ranging from deep rose-red to burgundy-purple depending on soil pH. It is especially valued for its dense, full flower heads, often up to 8 inches across, and dark green foliage.

Type: Deciduous shrub
Mature Size: Width: 3–5 ft · Height: 3–5 ft
USDA Zones: 6a–9b
Form: Compact, dense, rounded
Light: Part shade; can take more sun if soil stays evenly moist
Soil: Rich, moist, well-drained soil with organic matter
Water: Medium; do not allow to dry out
Wildlife: Not noted for strong pollinator value; deer may browse it

Features & Landscape Uses:
Excellent for foundation plantings, borders, hedges, and small garden spaces. The blooms are also useful fresh or dried. For the clearest pink-red tones, grow in soil with a pH above about 6.5; in more acidic soil, flowers may shift toward purple-blue tones.

Care:
Plant in part shade with consistently moist, well-drained soil. Mulch to help conserve moisture and protect roots. Because it flowers on old wood, prune only right after flowering if needed. In colder areas near Zone 6, winter injury can damage flower buds, so a sheltered site is helpful. 

Plant type

Flowering Deciduous Shrub

Height

3.5-4'

Width

3.5'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Late Spring, Summer

Leaf color

Dark Green

Fall color

Dark Green

Attracts

Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Soil

Moist well-drained, Rich

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Container, Foundation Plant, Mass Planting

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Drought tolerant

No