Hydrangea macrophylla Blue Ball

Common Name:
Blue Ball Hydrangea

Description:
Hydrangea macrophylla 'Blue Ball' is a classic mophead hydrangea admired for its large, rounded clusters of vivid blue flowers and lush, textured foliage. This deciduous shrub thrives in Melbourne’s cool to mild climate, performing best in part shade with protection from harsh afternoon sun. Its flowering colour is strongly influenced by soil pH—acidic soils will intensify the blue, while neutral to alkaline soils may cause a shift toward mauve or pink. Blooming from late spring through summer, 'Blue Ball' makes a stunning addition to cottage gardens, shaded borders, or as a statement in large containers. The blooms are long-lasting and excellent for cutting, drying, or floral arrangements. This cultivar prefers moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil and benefits from regular watering during dry spells. Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new season growth.

Form:
Shrub - Medium
Shrub - Clumping / Grass-like / Mounding

Mature Size:
Height: 1 – 1.5 m
Width: 1 – 1.5 m

Aspect:
Part Shade
Full Shade

Flowering:
Flowers in Late Spring
Flowers in Summer

Flower Colour:
Blue (in acidic soil)
Mauve to Pink (in alkaline soil)

Key Attributes:
Suitable for Pots
Perennial
Suitable for Cut Flowers
Suitable for Hedging
Low Maintenance
Bee Attracting (to some extent)
Seasonal Colour Impact

Toxicity:
Toxic if ingested – all parts, especially leaves and buds, can be harmful to humans and pets

Companion Plants:
Hosta spp.
Ferns (e.g. Athyrium niponicum)
Heuchera spp.
Camellia sasanqua
Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)

For more information and photos of this species, Warners Nursery has detailed information available to the public here