Hardiness
Zone 5
Difficulty level
Moderate
Discover the plant
Bigleaf Hydrangea Starfield
FamilyHydrangeaceae
The Starfield hydrangea is a compact, big-leaf hydrangea, appreciated for its abundant summer flowering and its rounded habit, which is easy to integrate into small landscaping. Its delicate flowers, grouped in generous bouquets, vary from pale pink to blue depending on the soil's acidity, a typical trait of Hydrangea macrophylla.
Sold under the name Starfield™, this variety corresponds to the botanical cultivar Hydrangea macrophylla 'Hortmafarfa'. It blooms in summer on old wood and new wood, which can promote more regular flowering than a traditional hydrangea, especially when the plant is well protected in winter.
In the garden, it prefers a bright location with morning sun and light afternoon shade, in rich, fresh, and well-drained soil. In Quebec's climate, it benefits from being planted in a spot sheltered from cold winds, with a good layer of mulch in the fall to protect the flower buds.
Soil and care
The rightconditions.
Soil pH
From acidic to neutral, the color of the flowers varies with pH.
Fertilization
Fertilize in spring with an acid-loving or balanced flowering shrub fertilizer, depending on the desired shade.
Care level
Moderate
Seasonal care
In spring, remove only dead or damaged wood, then wait for new growth before further pruning. Avoid severe pruning, as some of the bloom comes from old wood. In summer, maintain regular moisture and remove faded flowers as needed. In fall, add mulch to the base and protect the plant in colder areas.
Container growing
A controlledenvironment.
Pot cultivation is well-suited for this compact hydrangea, provided you use a large, perforated container filled with rich soil 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 susceptible to frost than when planted in the ground.
Bloom and dimensions
The completeprofile.
Bloom periodSummer
Flower colorPale pink to blue depending on soil pH
Foliage colorGreen
Foliage typeObsolete
Maximum height90 cm (36 in)
Maximum width60 to 90 cm (24 to 36 inches)
Growth rateModerate
Hardiness zoneZone 5
Minimum temperature'-28°C
Garden associations
What to plantwith it.
It can be used in beds near the house, in shady borders, in a romantic garden, or as a focal point in a small space. It pairs well with shade-loving perennials and textured foliage, while providing a long-lasting floral presence throughout the summer.
