Hydrangea macrophylla Endless Summer 'Summer Crush' is a compact reblooming bigleaf hydrangea prized for its rich raspberry red to deep purple blooms and strong upright habit. Ideal for smaller gardens and containers it thrives in part sun and provides vibrant color all season long. Its serrated dark green foliage forms a tight rounded mound that offers strong contrast to the bold flower heads.
Height & Spread: 18 - 36 in x 24 - 36 in
Bloom Time: Late spring to fall
Light Requirements: Part sun
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained soil with ample organic content; flower color varies with soil pH
Watering Needs: Regular watering needed, especially during heat waves or drought conditions
Deer Resistance: Moderately resistant; may require protection in areas with high deer pressure
Native Status
Hydrangea macrophylla is native to Japan. This cultivar, developed for the Endless Summer series, is not native to North America but is widely adapted for ornamental use in temperate zones.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Attracts honeybees and bumblebees particularly when fertile florets are present among the showy sterile blooms.
Butterflies
- Visited by Swallowtails and Great Spangled Fritillaries seeking nectar especially during peak bloom in summer.
Beneficial Insects
- Supports hoverflies and lacewing adults which help control aphid populations in surrounding plantings.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 3 ft apart to allow full mounding form without crowding neighboring plants or hardscapes.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for foundation plantings, patio containers, mixed borders, and small space gardens where vibrant color and structure are desired.
Companion Plants
- Dryopteris erythrosora (Autumn Fern) - Copper toned new fronds harmonize with the bloom palette and thrive in similar shade conditions.
- Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost' - Silvery foliage highlights the color saturation of hydrangea flowers and fills in shadier zones.
- Astilbe chinensis 'Visions' - Plumes of lavender pink flowers emerge in sync and provide vertical texture in partial shade.
- Heuchera 'Berry Smoothie' - Foliage in vivid pink tones mirrors the hydrangea’s bloom and provides seasonal interest year round.
- Hosta 'June' - Variegated foliage adds contrast and thrives in the same moisture and light conditions.