Are you considering growing a hydrangea or two in your garden, but you are unsure where it should be planted? Do you have a woodland garden that could use some love, or do you have an empty space in your sunny and warm flower garden? When you plant your hydrangea, will it need full sun, partial shade, or a fully shaded area?
Unfortunately, there isn’t a short answer to this question. But there is good news, and that’s that certain varieties of hydrangea can exist in full sun, partial shade, or even close to full shade. Again, this is variety dependent and will also depend on the geographic hardiness zone.
In this article, you’ll learn all about some different varieties of hydrangea, as well as their optimal growing conditions. The good news is no matter the sunlight conditions of your garden, there is a perfect hydrangea variety that will likely fit your garden space. Let’s jump in!
When it comes to hydrangea bushes, one of the most common questions is whether to plant them in sun or shade. The answer depends on the specific variety of hydrangea, as some do better in full sun while others prefer partial shade. In this article, we’ll break down the sun and shade needs of different hydrangea types to help you make the best choice for your garden.
Bigleaf Hydrangeas
The most popular type of hydrangea is the bigleaf, or French hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla) This is the variety with large, globular flower heads that can be blue or pink depending on soil pH
Bigleaf hydrangeas have traditionally been considered shade plants. They prefer morning sun with afternoon shade or dappled sunlight throughout the day. However, some new bigleaf varieties have been bred to be more sun tolerant:
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Endless Summer: Can handle 4-6 hours of sun, especially in cooler climates.
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Let’s Dance series More saturated flower colors allow better sun tolerance. Still needs afternoon shade in warm climates.
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Bloomstruck: Dark foliage absorbs more sun. Provides better sun protection.
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Pop Star: Thicker leaves absorb sun better than other varieties.
Even with these improved varieties, it’s best to avoid hot, direct afternoon sun in warmer zones unless you’re in zones 4-5. Dappled shade is ideal.
Smooth Hydrangeas
Smooth hydrangeas (Hydrangea arborescens), like the popular ‘Annabelle’ and ‘Incrediball’ varieties, can generally handle more sun than bigleaf types. They do best with morning sun and afternoon shade, but can take full sun in cooler climates.
In warmer zones, afternoon shade is required. Dappled shade all day is ideal.
Panicle Hydrangeas
Panicle hydrangeas (Hydrangea paniculata) are the most sun-tolerant type. Unlike bigleaf and smooth hydrangeas, panicles actually prefer at least 6 hours of direct sun per day. This allows them to produce the fullest flowers and strongest stems.
Some good panicle varieties for sun include:
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Limelight: Grows up to 8 feet tall with large white flowers aging to pink or burgundy.
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Little Lime: More compact at 3-5 feet tall. White flowers fade to green.
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Little Quick Fire: Only grows 3-4 feet tall with light pink blooms.
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Strawberry Sundae: White flowers turn pink, then strawberry red. Maxes out around 5 feet tall.
Oakleaf Hydrangeas
Oakleaf hydrangeas (Hydrangea quercifolia) are another variety that does well in sun. They can take full sun to partial shade, thriving with at least 5-6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Some popular oakleaf varieties include:
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Snow Queen: Features bold white flower spikes and deep red fall foliage. Grows 6-8 feet tall.
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Ruby Slippers: White summer flowers turn pink, then rich burgundy in fall. Compact at just 3-5 feet tall.
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Snowflake: A double-flowered type with gorgeous pompom-like blooms. Grows 5-6 feet tall.
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Munchkin: A dwarf oakleaf that only reaches 2-3 feet tall. Perfect for containers.
Mountain Hydrangeas
Mountain hydrangeas (Hydrangea serrata) are another subspecies that does well with sun exposure. They prefer morning sun with afternoon shade or dappled sun throughout the day. Mountain hydrangeas are Low-growing at just 2-4 feet tall.
Some notable mountain hydrangea varieties include:
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Blue Billow: Lacecap-type blooms are pink or blue depending on soil pH.
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Miyama-yae-mura: Pink or blue lacecap flowers with red fall foliage.
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Blue Deckle: Vibrant blue lacecap blooms all summer.
Climbing Hydrangeas
Climbing hydrangeas (Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris) are vines that can be grown on trellises, walls, and structures. They do best in partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates as long as their roots stay shaded and moist.
Tips for Growing Hydrangeas in Sun
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Provide consistent moisture. Hydrangeas wilt easily in sun if not watered regularly. Add mulch to help retain soil moisture.
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Give panicles and oakleafs at least 6 hours of sun for best blooms. Morning sun is essential.
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Plant in dappled or morning sun only for bigleaf, smooth, mountain, and climbing hydrangeas.
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Choose varieties with dark leaves or saturated bloom colors for improved sun tolerance.
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Grow panicles and oakleafs in zones 7+ for best sun exposure performance.
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Plant in partial shade if unsure. It’s easier to increase sun later than remedy too much sun.
No matter which hydrangea type you choose, provide plenty of water and rich soil for the healthiest growth. With the right variety matched to your sunlight conditions, hydrangeas can thrive and add gorgeous color to your garden year after year.
So, Full Sun or Partial Shade?
Well, the answer is both! Plants that prefer partial shade, or interchangeably partial sun, need between three and six hours of direct sunlight per day. Sun-loving plants require six hours or more of direct sunlight per day.
If you are unsure how much sun you get in your yard, check a specific spot in your garden every hour or two from sunrise to sunset. Take note of how sunny or shady the spot is from there. Sunlight calculators are also available at garden centers and are a great option if you are short on time.
All species of hydrangea will indeed grow well in partial shade. However, some of these species will actually thrive with a bit more sun. There is one variety in particular that loves full sun: Hydrangea paniculata, or the panicle hydrangea.
Many hydrangeas are sensitive to soil pH, especially when it comes to controlling the color of your blooms. However, H. macrophylla and H. serrata are two species that are not great candidates for deep shade or full sun.
Hydrangeas in the Shade
Hydrangeas thrive with that perfect combination of morning sun and afternoon shade. Even Hydrangea paniculata, which is a sun lover, will do well in partial shade. However, some varieties of hydrangea can tolerate full shade.
Hydrangea quercifolia, or oakleaf hydrangea, is a large hydrangea species that can grow to eight or more feet tall. This large shrub is a great backdrop in a shade garden. The height will offer great summertime privacy. Blooming in the summer, oakleaf hydrangea has white flowers for the most part, intricate oakleaf-shaped leaves, and beautiful peeling bark.
Another full shade option is Hydrangea anomala ssp petiolaris. Covered in white summertime, lacy blooms, this climbing species can grow up to 50 feet if it is well supported. The foliage is a deep shade of green and would be lovely covering the face of a building, the roof of a garden shed, or even growing up the trunk of a tree.
The maintenance of full-shade varieties is the same as partial shade. Keeping the plants free of leaf litter, with good airflow, will be especially important in the deeper shade. Once your plant has been established, water it about once a week. Keep your eye on the leaves, and if they appear to be drooping, especially in the hot summer temperatures, water frequently. This is especially important in hotter climates.
The interesting shape of these leaves would make a really nice accent to Hosta leaves. The white blooms would add some bright color to your shady areas and would complement the lighter colors of your shady blooms nicely.
There are a few different varieties of hydrangea that perform well in the shade. Some varieties can even grow in colder growing zones, all the way down to zone three, which doesn’t start heating up until later in the spring. Let’s take a look at some of the top shade varieties!
‘Snow Queen’ is a stunner. As with all hydrangeas, the flowers are gorgeous. These blooms arrive in midsummer in a rosy blush tone. My favorite part of this plant is the foliage. The leaves start out in a very deep green, and as the season progresses, they slowly change color, finally ending in a deep reddish bronze color and adding a gorgeous splash of color to your autumn garden.
This is among the largest of the Oakleaf Hydrangea, growing from anywhere between 12 and 15 feet. This plant produces really rich cream-colored flowers in the summertime. ‘Alice’ would be really special in a woodland garden. This variety would be especially stunning when planted as a hedge to create a border.
Sporting some of the biggest flowers in the hydrangea family (I am talking 12 inches across!), ‘Annabelle’ loves partial shade. The stems are strong enough to support these massive flowers all season long. Give this shrub plenty of room to grow; it grows to five feet high and five feet wide. These whopper flowers are pure white and are long-blooming.
‘Annabelle’ would be charming in a foundation planting, as a specimen shrub, or in a mass planting. Don’t count these shrubs out in your cutting garden! Imagine flowers that big in a bouquet! Wow!
How to choose the right hydrangea
FAQ
Will hydrangeas grow in full shade?
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General Preference:Most hydrangeas thrive in partial shade, ideally receiving morning sun and afternoon shade, particularly in hotter climates.
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Shade Tolerance:While they need some sunlight, hydrangeas can tolerate shade, especially during the hottest part of the day.
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Oakleaf Hydrangeas:These are particularly well-suited for shady conditions and are a good choice for areas with limited sunlight.
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Other Shade-Tolerant Varieties:Climbing hydrangeas (Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris) are also known for their ability to thrive in shaded areas, especially on vertical surfaces like walls or fences.
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Impact of Shade:If hydrangeas don’t receive enough sunlight, they may produce fewer blooms, and their stems can become weaker and floppier.
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Consider Your Climate:In cooler climates, hydrangeas can tolerate more sun, while in hotter climates, they benefit from shade during the hottest part of the day.
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Soil and Watering:Ensure the soil is moist but well-drained, as hydrangeas are water-loving plants.
Where should you not plant hydrangeas?
- Too much sun: While some hydrangeas can tolerate morning sun, many varieties, especially those with large, white blooms, can burn in intense, prolonged afternoon sun.
- Not enough sun: Complete shade can prevent hydrangeas from blooming adequately.
- Ideal location: Most hydrangeas thrive with morning sun and afternoon shade, or in dappled shade.
Can I put hydrangeas in full sun?
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Most Hydrangeas Prefer Shade or Partial Sun:Many popular hydrangeas, like bigleaf (French) hydrangeas, do best with morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in warmer climates.
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Panicle Hydrangeas Can Handle Full Sun:Panicle hydrangeas ( Hydrangea paniculata), such as Limelight, Quick Fire, and Vanilla Strawberry, are known for their ability to tolerate full sun.
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Factors to Consider:
- Climate: In warmer climates, even panicle hydrangeas may benefit from some afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch.
- Soil: Hydrangeas generally prefer moist, well-drained soil.
- Watering: Hydrangeas are water-loving plants, so ensure they receive adequate watering, especially in sunny conditions.
- Climate: In warmer climates, even panicle hydrangeas may benefit from some afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch.
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Hydrangea Varieties:
- Bigleaf (French) Hydrangeas: These are best in morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in warmer areas.
- Smooth (Mophead) Hydrangeas: Similar to bigleaf hydrangeas, they prefer morning sun and afternoon shade.
- Oakleaf Hydrangeas: These tend to thrive in shade and won’t bloom well in full sun.
- Panicle Hydrangeas: These are known for their ability to tolerate full sun, and some even thrive in it.
- Bigleaf (French) Hydrangeas: These are best in morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in warmer areas.
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Tips for Growing Hydrangeas in Full Sun:
- Choose the Right Variety: Select panicle hydrangeas or other sun-tolerant varieties.
- Provide Afternoon Shade (if needed): In warmer climates, consider providing some afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch.
- Water Regularly: Hydrangeas need plenty of water, especially in sunny conditions.
- Protect from Strong Winds: Hydrangeas can be susceptible to damage from strong winds, so choose a sheltered location.
- Choose the Right Variety: Select panicle hydrangeas or other sun-tolerant varieties.
Where is the best place to plant hydrangeas?
- Sunlight: Most hydrangeas thrive in partial shade, meaning they prefer morning sun and dappled shade in the afternoon.
- Soil: They need well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Water: Hydrangeas need consistent moisture, so choose a spot that doesn’t dry out quickly.
- Space: Give hydrangeas enough room to grow, as they can become quite large.
- Avoid: Planting hydrangeas directly under trees, as they compete for water and nutrients.
- South-facing positions: While they can tolerate some sun, avoid south-facing positions, especially if the soil is very dry.
- Climbing hydrangeas: If you have a very shaded vertical surface, consider growing a climbing hydrangea like Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris.
- Soil pH: Hydrangeas are known for their ability to produce different colored flowers based on soil pH. Acidic soil (pH below 6.5) will produce blue or purple flowers, while alkaline soil (pH above 6.5) will produce pink flowers.
Do hydrangeas need sun?
There are a wide variety of hydrangeas with different sun exposure needs. Exposure needs can vary depending on your region and climate. However, most hydrangeas will be happy with morning sun and afternoon shade. Some hydrangeas will do well in “filtered shade,” but complete shade is often not ideal for hydrangeas.
Can hydrangeas grow in shade?
Even Hydrangea paniculata, which is a sun lover, will do well in partial shade. However, some varieties of hydrangea can tolerate full shade. Hydrangea quercifolia, or oakleaf hydrangea, is a large hydrangea species that can grow to eight or more feet tall. This large shrub is a great backdrop in a shade garden.
Do bigleaf hydrangeas like Sun?
Bigleaf hydrangeas, also known as hydrangea macrophylla, vary especially with some of the newer cultivars being bred to better tolerate heat and sun, but most of these including the mopheads and lacecaps prefer some shade, especially during the afternoon.
What color are Hydrangea Blooms?
Hydrangea blooms will be pink or purple with a soil pH of 6.0-6.5. 6. Other Common Hydrangea Care Questions Do hydrangeas like sun or shade?
Are hydrangeas happiest in shade?
Most species of hydrangea are happiest in partial shade, and a few can even be called full shade hydrangeas. Read on to learn more about the best hydrangeas for shade. It’s rare to find a type of shrub that can offer flowers from May through the end of autumn, but hydrangeas can do this and more. Some even offer winter interest as well.
How do hydrangeas grow?
Hydrangeas typically flourish when they receive morning sunlight followed by afternoon shade. This can be achieved by planting them east of a structure such as a building, wall, or tree. This positioning ensures that as the sun moves westward, the hydrangeas are shaded in the afternoon by the object blocking the western sunlight.