The ‘Red Angel’ Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla) offers vibrant blooms, striking foliage, and a compact growth habit. Its eye-catching color and relatively easy care make it a popular choice for many gardens.
Unique Features of Red Angel Hydrangea
‘Red Angel’ Hydrangea features deep pinky-red mophead blooms in summer. The flowers develop a rich purple-crimson color, often with small cream centers, and the intensity of this red hue can be influenced by soil acidity. This cultivar also features dark green leaves that may be flushed with bronze or purple when young, providing an attractive contrast to the vibrant flowers.
This deciduous shrub forms a compact, upright, and bushy shape, reaching a mature height of approximately 3 to 4 feet (90-120 centimeters) with a similar spread. Its flowering season extends from mid-summer into early autumn. The ‘Red Angel’ Hydrangea is part of the ‘Black Diamonds’ series, known for its dark foliage, which further enhances the visual impact of its bright red flowers.
Planting Your Red Angel Hydrangea
Selecting the appropriate location for your ‘Red Angel’ Hydrangea is important. This plant thrives in partially shaded to shaded areas, ideally receiving morning sunlight or filtered light throughout the day. Protection from strong winds is also beneficial.
The ‘Red Angel’ Hydrangea prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. To prepare the planting site, dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball and as deep as the plant’s container. Incorporating compost or well-rotted manure will enhance soil quality.
The ideal time for planting ‘Red Angel’ Hydrangea is in early spring or late autumn when the plant is dormant. If planting in late spring or early summer, ensure the soil remains consistently moist. Before placing the plant, gently loosen the edges of the root ball and, if dry, soak it in lukewarm water for a few minutes. Position the plant so the top of the root ball is just below ground level, then backfill with soil, gently tamping it down, and water thoroughly.
Ongoing Care for Red Angel Hydrangea
Consistent moisture is important for ‘Red Angel’ Hydrangea. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells and hot summer months, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Fertilization supports growth and blooms. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer designed for hydrangeas to address nutrient deficiencies. Adding cow manure to the soil in early spring provides nutrients. Mulching the area around the plant with organic material helps retain soil moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Pruning ‘Red Angel’ Hydrangea involves removing faded flowerheads in spring after the danger of frost has passed, cutting back the stems to a strong pair of buds. Additionally, remove any dried, damaged, or misplaced shoots. Since this Hydrangea macrophylla variety blooms on stems from the previous year’s growth, avoid heavy pruning that removes old wood to ensure abundant flowering.
Winter protection is advisable, particularly in colder climates, for flower buds that form on old wood. Mounding shredded leaves or bark mulch around the base of the plant in late fall provides insulation. In very cold regions, covering the bushes with a special agrofibre or burlap offers additional protection.
Addressing Common Red Angel Hydrangea Issues
‘Red Angel’ Hydrangea can encounter common garden issues. Pests like aphids and spider mites may appear, causing wilting or yellowing leaves. Insecticidal soaps or neem oil can help manage these infestations.
Fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew (a white, powdery growth), can affect leaves, particularly in humid or crowded conditions. Leaf spot diseases also cause dark spots on foliage. Improving air circulation, reducing humidity, and avoiding overhead watering can help prevent fungal issues.
Environmental stressors can cause wilting or browning leaves. While ‘Red Angel’ Hydrangea may wilt during hot afternoons, it often recovers overnight if the soil is moist. Persistent wilting, however, can indicate either underwatering or, conversely, overwatering leading to root rot. Yellowing leaves might also signal nutrient deficiencies, such as a lack of nitrogen or iron.