The ‘Magical Revolution’ Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Hokomarevo’) is a popular choice for gardeners. This Bigleaf Hydrangea variety is known for its compact growth and re-blooming ability, offering consistent flowers throughout the season. It is easy to care for and thrives in various garden settings, including containers.
Unique Characteristics
The ‘Magical Revolution’ Hydrangea is distinguished by its unique flower color transformation over a long blooming period. Mophead flowers initially emerge in pastel pink or blue, depending on soil pH. As the season progresses, blooms transition, developing green flushes before deepening into rich red or plum burgundy by autumn. This color progression provides up to 150 days of evolving visual interest. Its compact size, 24-30 inches in height and spread, makes it suitable for smaller gardens, borders, or containers, maintaining an upright habit.
Planting and Growing Conditions
‘Magical Revolution’ Hydrangea thrives in locations with morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in warmer climates, to prevent scorched leaves and faded blooms. Soil should be well-draining, rich in organic matter, and consistently moist.
Soil pH determines flower color. Acidic soil (below pH 5.0) encourages blue flowers due to aluminum availability, while alkaline soil promotes pink or red blooms. To achieve blue flowers, add aluminum sulfate; for pink, use lime to raise pH. Water consistently, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot. Fertilize once in spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer for sustained blooming.
Pruning and Maintenance
‘Magical Revolution’ Hydrangea blooms on both old and new wood, simplifying pruning. Pruning is minimal, done in early spring before new growth, primarily to remove dead, damaged, or weak branches. Deadheading old flower heads at the end of the blooming cycle helps maintain tidiness; cut just below the spent flower.
In colder climates, winter protection ensures plant survival and future blooms. In Zone 5, plant in a sheltered location and apply a 12-inch layer of organic mulch (straw or mulched leaves) around the base to insulate roots and protect flower buds. Wrapping the plant with burlap offers additional protection.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Common issues with ‘Magical Revolution’ Hydrangeas often relate to environmental factors. Few or no flowers can result from insufficient sunlight (at least three hours needed), improper pruning that removed developing buds, or late frosts damaging buds.
Flower color issues are linked to soil pH. If desired blue or pink shades don’t appear, test and adjust soil pH with amendments. Yellowing leaves (chlorosis) indicate nutrient deficiency or overwatering. Browning leaf tips or wilting leaves point to underwatering, excessive sun exposure, or too much fertilizer. Consistent moisture, afternoon shade, and avoiding excessive fertilization prevent these symptoms.