Nursery.ca | Hydrangea macrophylla 'Kimono'

Latin name

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Hokomabebos'

Common name

Hydrangea 'Kimono'

Type

Ornamental shrub

Family

Hydrangeaceae

The Kimono hydrangea is a compact, large-leaved hydrangea, sought after for its very distinctive bicoloured blooms. Its flowers feature a light, white to pinkish centre, bordered with wine-red tones in neutral soil, which can turn blue in more acidic soil. Its dense, rounded habit makes it an elegant ornamental shrub for small gardens, neat borders, and landscaping near the house.

This variety is sold under the trade name Kimono, while its recognized botanical cultivar is Hydrangea macrophylla 'Hokomabebos'. It is appreciated for its ability to rebloom on both old and new wood, which can extend floral interest throughout the season when the plant is well established and protected. Its lush, deciduous green foliage beautifully highlights its delicate inflorescences.

In Quebec, the Kimono hydrangea prefers a sheltered, bright location with morning sun and light afternoon shade. It requires rich, cool, well-drained soil, as well as winter mulch to protect the base and flower buds. Like many Hydrangea macrophylla, it performs best in more sheltered areas of zone 5.

Care guide

Care level

Moderate

Choosing this plant

Main benefit

Its main asset is its refined bicolored bloom, with light flowers edged in wine red or blue depending on the soil pH, on a compact shrub that is easy to integrate into small spaces.

It can be used in a partial shade bed, as a border near an entrance, in an urban garden, or in a decorative pot on a bright patio. It pairs well with perennials that prefer cool soil, textured foliage, and light shade plants, all while adding an elegant floral touch during the summer.

Container growing

Kimono hydrangeas are well-suited for container growing due to their compact habit. Use a wide pot with drainage holes, filled with rich potting mix that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. Place the pot in partial shade, water regularly during hot periods, and protect the container in winter, as the roots are more exposed to frost than when planted in the ground.

Seasonal care

In spring, wait until bud break before pruning, then remove only dead or damaged wood. Avoid severe pruning, as some of the bloom may come from old wood. In summer, maintain consistent moisture and remove spent flowers as needed. In fall, add a generous mulch at the base and protect the plant in colder or exposed locations.

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone

Zone 5

Exposure

Partial shade

Watering

Abundant in hot weather, soil always fresh

Humidity

Medium to high, cool and well-drained soil

Fertilization

Specific hydrangea fertilizer according to the desired color:

Soil type

Humiferous, well-drained, acidic to alkaline (pH influences color)

Soil pH

Acid to neutral, the color of the borders may vary depending on the pH

Minimum temperature

'-28°C

Propagation method

Semi-hardwood cuttings

Blooming period

Early summer to early fall

Flower color

Pink

Fruiting

Dry non-ornamental capsules

Foliage color

Green

Foliage type

Obsolete

Shape

Compact, dense and rounded port, well structured

Height

1 to 1.2 m (39 to 48 inches)

Width

1.2 m (4 feet)

Growth rate

Medium — steady growth, well-defined rounded shape achieved in 3 to 4 years, requires little pruning to establish structure.

Vegetable garden and yield

Companion planting, spacing and harvest

Companion plants

Hostas, astilbes, ferns, heucheras, hakonechloas

Spacing

90 cm (36 in)

Pets

Pollinators

Butterflies

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.