- Plant Characteristics: Large, velvety leaves and elegant lacecap flower heads give it a slightly wild, woodland look. A great choice if you want something a bit different from the usual mophead hydrangeas.
- Growing & Care: Thrives in partial shade with moist, well-drained soil—ideally somewhere sheltered. It doesn't like drying out, so keep an eye on watering in summer.
- Tips for New Gardeners: It's not the easiest hydrangea to grow, but if you've got a bit of patience, it rewards you with a lovely natural feel. Propagation can be tricky, so go with a young plant rather than seeds.
Hydrangea aspera, commonly known as the Rough-leaved hydrangea, is a favourite among gardeners for its stunning, large blooms and rugged leaves. This flowering plant species belongs to the family Hydrangeaceae, and is native to woodlands and mountainous regions of the Himalayas and China.
This species grows into a large deciduous shrub, and reaches six to ten feet (1.8 to 3 meters) in height and four to six feet (1.2 to 1.8 meters) in spread. It is distinguished by its lacecap flower heads, where small, fertile flowers occupy the center, and larger, sterile flowers form a fringe around them.
The plant's leaves are notably rough, hence the common name, and have a dark green color that provides a beautiful backdrop for the soft-hued flowers. The blooms, often purple or blue surrounded by white, appear in mid to late summer and into early autumn, depending on climate, adding a splash of color when many other plants are past their prime.
Gardeners are drawn to the Hydrangea aspera for several reasons. Its distinctive blooms add visual appeal and depth to the garden, while the plant's size makes it an excellent option for creating a privacy screen or border. The rough-leaved hydrangea is versatile, fitting well into woodland gardens, cottage gardens, and shrub borders.
Rough-leaved hydrangea is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 7 to 9 and RHS hardiness zones H5 to H6, making it a hardy option for a wide range of climates.
How to Grow Hydrangea aspera in the Garden
When it comes to location, the Hydrangea aspera prefers a spot with partial shade, though it can tolerate full sun if the soil is kept moist. It thrives in well-drained, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. Alkaline, acid, or neutral pH levels are all suitable for this adaptable plant.
For propagation, softwood cuttings can be taken in early summer. Choose a healthy, non-flowering shoot and cut just below a leaf node. Remove the lower leaves and insert the cutting into a pot filled with cutting compost.
If you're growing from seed, the best time to sow is in spring. Be aware that seed propagation is uncommon for this plant as it is difficult, being slow and unpredictable. If you still want to give it a try, fill a seed tray with compost and lightly press the seeds into the surface. Cover the tray with a clear plastic bag and place it in a location with indirect light. Keep the compost moist until the seeds germinate.
The ideal planting time for Hydrangea aspera is in the early spring or fall. Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball, place the plant in, and backfill the hole.
After planting, ensure the soil is kept consistently moist, especially during dry spells. Mulch annually with well-rotted compost or manure to enrich the soil and retain moisture.
Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and size, removing any weak or damaged stems.
Although pets tend to avoid plants with strong tastes or scents, it's important to note that Hydrangea aspera contains cyanogenic compounds that can be toxic if ingested. If your pets are prone to chewing on plants, then it's best to place this one in an area they can't access.
Hydrangea aspera requires little else in terms of care, allowing it to grace your garden with its vibrant flowers with minimal fuss. Hopefully you'll enjoy the impressive display it brings to the garden in late summer and fall.
Quick Hydrangea aspera Growing and Care Guide
Scientific Name: Hydrangea aspera
Common Name(s): Rough-Leaved Hydrangea
Growing Zone (USA / UK Hardiness): USDA Zones: 7-9 RHS Hardiness Rating: H5.
Best Used For / Garden Location: Used in mixed borders or woodland gardens. Prefers dappled shade.
Plant Details
Life Cycle / Plant Type: Deciduous shrub.
Plant Height: 6.5-13 feet (2-4 meters).
Plant Spread: 6.5-13 feet (2-4 meters).
Blooms: Late summer to early fall.
Flower Details: Lacecap flowerheads with mauve or purple-blue fertile flowers surrounded by white or pink sterile flowers.
Leaf Foliage: Large, rough, dark green leaves.
Fruit: N/A (ornamental plant).
Growing Conditions and Location
Best Light Conditions: Dappled shade.
Suitable Soil Types: Moist but well-drained, fertile soil.
Sowing / planting: Plant container-grown shrubs in spring or autumn.
Germination time: N/A (new plants are usually propagated via cuttings).
Propagation: Propagate by softwood cuttings in summer.
Plant Care: Water regularly, especially in dry periods. Prune lightly after flowering.
Growing in pots and containers: Suitable for large containers with good drainage.
Growing as a House plant: It is not typically grown as a houseplant.
Further Information
Miscellaneous: Attracts butterflies. May be sensitive to cold, dry winds.
Pests and diseases: Can be affected by aphids, capsid bugs, and powdery mildew.
Common Cultivars / Varieties: Hydrangea aspera 'Sargentiana', known for its velvety leaves and purple-blue flowers. Hydrangea aspera 'Macrophylla', noted for its large leaves and purple-blue to pink flowers.
Family: Hydrangeaceae, the Hydrangea family.
Native: China.
References and Further Reading: "Hydrangea aspera." Royal Horticultural Society.
Common Questions
Does Hydrangea aspera make a good garden or landscaping plant?
Yes, this rough-leaved hydrangea, with its large, unique flowers and velvet-textured leaves, is a beautiful addition to any garden, particularly woodland or shade gardens.
Is Hydrangea aspera a fragrant plant?
Yes, it has a light, sweet fragrance. Its subtle scent is not as strong as other flowering plants like roses, but is still noticeable in the late summer and autumn when the plant is in bloom.
What is an ideal location to grow Hydrangea aspera?
Hydrangea aspera prefers a partially shaded location with rich, well-drained soil. It can tolerate full sun in cooler climates, but in hotter areas, it needs protection from harsh afternoon sun.
Is Hydrangea aspera invasive in the USA, if so in which states?
Hydrangea aspera is not considered invasive in the USA. This plant typically grows slowly and does not spread aggressively. Though be sure to check your local regulations when growing non-native plants in your garden.
How can I remove Hydrangea aspera from my garden?
To remove this plant, cut it back and then dig up the root system. Try to remove as much of the root as possible to prevent the plant from regrowing.
Summary
Hydrangea aspera, native to the Himalayas and China, prefers part shade and moist, well-drained soil. This deciduous shrub is loved for its large, contrasting flower heads that bloom in late summer and add visual interest when many other plants are fading.
I hope that you have enjoyed reading this guide on how to grow Rough-leaved hydrangea. You may also enjoy my growing guides on How to grow Bigleaf Hydrangea, Panicle Hydrangea, and other Hydrangeaceae plants such as Kirengeshoma and Slender Deutzia in your garden.
