Hydrangea serrata Beni-gaku

Beni-gaku Hydrangea

Hydrangea serrata ‘Beni-gaku’ is a deciduous shrub admired for its delicate lacecap flower heads that open with white sterile florets and gradually develop deep pink to red margins as they mature. This mountain hydrangea blooms in early to mid-summer, with fertile center flowers often showing bluish or lavender tones depending on soil pH. Its refined bloom pattern and smaller foliage give it a graceful, delicate appearance.

Type: Deciduous shrub
Mature Size: Width: 3–5 ft · Height: 3–5 ft
USDA Zones: 5a–8b

Form: Rounded, compact

Light: Part shade to morning sun

Soil: Rich, moist, well-drained soil

Water: Medium; prefers evenly moist soil

Wildlife: Attracts bees and other pollinating insects

Features & Landscape Uses:
Excellent for woodland gardens, borders, foundation plantings, and smaller shaded landscapes where its changing flower coloration provides subtle seasonal interest. It is especially attractive in close viewing areas because of its detailed lacecap flower form.

Care:
Plant in part shade with fertile, organic-rich soil that remains consistently moist. Prune lightly after flowering if shaping is needed, since buds form on old wood. Mulch roots to conserve moisture and protect shallow roots.

Plant type

Flowering Deciduous Shrub

Height

3-5'

Width

3-5'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Early Fall, Late Summer, Summer

Flower color

Pink

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Red

Attracts

Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Soil

Moist well-drained, Rich

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Container, Foundation Plant, Mass Planting, Rock Garden

Shape

Compact, Rounded

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Drought tolerant

No