Hydrangea macrophylla 'Merritt Supreme'

Merritt's Supreme Bigleaf Hydrangea

Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Merritt Supreme’ is a deciduous shrub known for its exceptionally large mophead flower clusters and vigorous growth. This bigleaf hydrangea blooms in summer on old wood, producing dense rounded flower heads that range from rich pink to blue depending on soil pH. The blooms are often very full and showy, while the dark green foliage creates a bold backdrop that gives the plant a strong garden presence.

Type: Deciduous shrub
Mature Size: Width: 4–6 ft · Height: 4–6 ft
USDA Zones: 6a–9b

Form: Rounded, upright

Light: Part shade to morning sun

Soil: Rich, moist, well-drained soil

Water: Medium; prefers consistently moist soil

Wildlife: Attracts bees and other pollinating insects

Features & Landscape Uses:
Highly valued for its oversized flower heads, making it an excellent choice for specimen planting, foundation beds, borders, and cut flower use. Flower color shifts toward blue in acidic soils and pink in alkaline soils.

Care:
Plant in part shade with fertile, evenly moist soil enriched with organic matter. Prune only after flowering since buds develop on old wood. Mulch roots to conserve moisture and help protect flower buds during winter.

Plant type

Flowering Deciduous Shrub

Height

4-6'

Width

4-6'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Early Fall, Late Summer, Summer

Flower color

Pink

Leaf color

Dark Green

Fall color

Dark Green

Attracts

Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Soil

Moist well-drained, Rich

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Border, Container, Foundation Plant, Mass Planting

Shape

Rounded, Upright

Bark

Smooth

Drought tolerant

No