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types of hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are some of the most beloved shrubs in New Zealand gardens. Known for their lush blooms and bold colours, hydrangeas are as beautiful as they are versatile. With countless varieties to choose from, finding the right types of hydrangeas for your landscape can be both exciting and rewarding. Whether you’re searching for dramatic mophead blossoms or the elegant panicle types, hydrangeas offer something for every garden style and climate.

Hydrangea paniculata Levana

Hydrangea 'Levana' is a commanding paniculata variety known for its exceptionally large, upright panicle blooms that emerge creamy white and age to soft blush tones. Reaching impressive heights, this vigorous hydrangea is perfect for use as a specimen plant, hedge, or backdrop in New Zealand gardens. It thrives in full sun to part-shade and adapts well to a range of soil types, provided they are moist and well-drained. ‘Levana’ offers a dramatic summer display and is ideal for gardeners wanting height, structure, and floral impact.

Buy Hydrangea paniculata Levana

From $29.63

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Shrubs

Height: 2.50 m

Spread: 2.50 m

Flowering time: Summer, Autumn

Tolerances: Hardy

Garden uses: Containers, Hedging, Living areas

Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Cottage, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern

Hydrangea Masja

Hydrangea 'Masja' is a compact mophead hydrangea known for its vibrant rose-pink blooms and tidy, rounded shape—perfect for small gardens, borders, or containers. Despite its smaller size, it produces full-sized flower heads that bloom reliably from early to late summer. 'Masja' thrives in part-shade with moist, well-drained soil and is well suited to New Zealand’s garden conditions. This variety offers brilliant seasonal colour in a manageable form, making it an excellent choice for urban or low-maintenance landscapes.

Buy Hydrangea Masja

From $26.93

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Shrubs

Height: 1.50 m

Spread: 1.50 m

Flowering time: Summer, Autumn

Tolerances: Hardy

Garden uses: Containers, Hedging, Living areas

Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Cottage, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Rock

Popular Types of Hydrangeas

While hydrangeas come in many shapes and sizes, a few main types have become favourites among gardeners. Understanding the key differences helps you select the best fit for your garden.

Mophead Hydrangeas

Mophead hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla) boast large, rounded flower heads and are perhaps the most recognisable type. Their blooms can range from pink, blue, or purple, with colour often influenced by soil pH. Varieties like Hydrangea Masja are known for their vibrant, deep pink flowers and compact form, making them perfect for smaller spaces or containers.

Lacecap Hydrangeas

Lacecaps feature a more delicate, flat bloom with central fertile flowers surrounded by larger, sterile blossoms. Their subtle structure provides a different texture in the garden, with varieties such as Hydrangea Blue Deckle bringing a refined touch and a lovely blue hue that stands out in partially shaded spots.

Panicle Hydrangeas (Hydrangea paniculata)

If you crave impressive, elongated clusters of blooms, panicle hydrangeas are a standout choice. Their cone-shaped flowers often start white and take on rose or lime tones as they mature. For an especially grand specimen, Hydrangea paniculata Levana offers massive panicles and a graceful, upright habit ideal for making a bold statement.

Mountain Hydrangeas

Known for their hardiness, mountain hydrangeas (Hydrangea serrata) bring resilience alongside beauty. Their smaller, lacecap-style blooms pair well in mixed borders, adding gentle colour and structure. You might consider Hydrangea Blue Deckle, a popular serrata type, if you want reliable flowers and a bushy, compact shape.

Unique and Unusual Varieties

Beyond the classics, there are unique hydrangea varieties worth noting. Hydrangea Kyushu features elegant, airy panicles, lending a soft, ethereal quality. Hydrangea Princess Juliana delights with delicate, beautifully formed blooms that make a striking addition to specialty collections or focal points.

Choosing the Right Hydrangea for Your Garden

When considering the types of hydrangeas for your garden, think about the space, sunlight, and style you want to achieve. Mophead varieties like Hydrangea Masja are ideal for borders and containers. Panicle types like Hydrangea paniculata Levana provide height and drama. Delicate mountain and lacecap types such as Hydrangea Blue Deckle or Hydrangea Kyushu offer refined beauty for shadier or sheltered areas.

Explore our full range of hydrangeas and discover the perfect types of hydrangeas to enhance your New Zealand garden with lasting colour and charm.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.