Hydrangea macrophylla Endless Summer 'Original' is a breakthrough repeat blooming mophead hydrangea that flowers on both old and new wood offering color from late spring through fall. With large globe shaped blooms that shift between blue, lavender, and pink depending on soil pH it brings dynamic visual interest to gardens throughout the season. Its compact rounded habit and glossy green foliage make it ideal for foundation plantings, borders, or decorative containers in part shade locations.
Height & Spread: 36 - 48 in x 36 - 48 in
Bloom Time: Late spring to fall
Light Requirements: Part sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist, rich, well drained soil with high organic matter
Watering Needs: Moderate to high; prefers consistent moisture, especially in hot weather
Deer Resistance: Not deer resistant; may require protection in high pressure areas
Native Status
Hydrangea macrophylla is native to Japan. The Endless Summer series is a cultivated hybrid bred for its reblooming performance and cold hardiness making it adaptable to a range of North American climates.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Attracts native bumblebees and sweat bees to its fertile florets hidden among the showier sterile flowers especially early in the bloom cycle.
Butterflies
- Visited by hairstreaks, fritillaries, and small skippers which utilize the modest nectar resources during midsummer flights.
Birds
- Spent blooms and dense foliage provide shelter for songbirds and cover for fledglings in mixed shrub borders.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Plant 36 - 48 in apart to allow mature shrubs to fill in naturally while maintaining airflow and symmetry.
Landscape Placement:
- Excellent for shaded foundation beds, cottage gardens, or containers; pairs beautifully with hostas, ferns, and woodland perennials to create layered interest under trees or beside structures.
Companion Plants
- Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost' - Silver veined foliage brightens shady settings and echoes cooler bloom hues.
- Ferns (Dryopteris erythrosora) - Bronze tinged fronds complement the emerging flower buds and offer soft textures below the canopy.
- Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola' - Flowing chartreuse grass adds motion and vivid contrast against the rounded hydrangea form.
- Heuchera 'Berry Smoothie' - Lush raspberry toned leaves bring year round color and harmonize with pink hydrangea blossoms.
- Hosta 'Blue Angel' - Massive blue toned foliage contrasts dramatically with the hydrangea’s vibrant blooms and balances the scale.