Seaside Serenade Cape Hatteras Hydrangea

Seaside Serenade Cape Hatteras Bigleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla 'HORTHAT')

Seaside Serenade Cape Hatteras is a compact mophead hydrangea prized for stunning, long-lasting ruby red blooms that hold true regardless of soil pH. Thick, bright green foliage and notably sturdy stems keep large flower heads upright in borders and containers.

Distinctive Features

True ruby red color unaffected by pH delivers reliable impact, while robust stems and dense foliage create a tidy, high-quality presentation ideal for landscape use and cutting.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Morning sun with afternoon shade; avoid hot, reflected exposures.
• Soil: Moist, well drained, humus-rich soil with consistent organic matter.
• Water: Keep evenly moist, especially during bud and bloom; do not allow prolonged dryness.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 9.
• Mature Size: Typically 3 to 4 ft tall and 3 to 4 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Ruby red mopheads create a bold seasonal centerpiece.
• Foundation Planting: Compact habit fits under windows and along paths.
• Mixed Borders: Pairs with hostas, ferns, and summer perennials.
• Containers: Performs in large pots with steady moisture and shade.
• Cut Flowers: Strong stems and durable heads excel in arrangements.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply and regularly in summer; mulch to keep roots cool and moist.
• Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering to shape and remove spent heads; avoid heavy spring cuts that remove buds.
• Fertilizing: Feed in spring with a balanced fertilizer to support growth and flowering.
• Mulching: Maintain a 2 inch organic mulch, keeping it off stems.
• Notes: Protect swelling buds from late frosts; provide afternoon shade to preserve flower quality.

Why Choose Seaside Serenade Cape Hatteras Bigleaf Hydrangea?

• Stable Color: Ruby red blooms remain vivid independent of soil pH.
• Compact Form: Full-size blooms on a small, landscape-friendly footprint.
• Sturdy Stems: Non-flopping framework supports large heads.
• High-Quality Foliage: Thick green leaves enhance summer display.
• Versatile: Effective in borders, foundations, containers, and cutting gardens.

Provide morning sun, afternoon shade, steady moisture, and light post-bloom pruning to maintain dense growth and abundant, ruby red flowers all season.