The ‘Red Romance Hydrangea’ (Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Red Romance’) is a popular cultivar known for its vibrant, color-changing blooms. It displays a spectrum of hues, from deep reds to purples, depending on soil conditions. This makes it a versatile choice for various garden settings, including beds and containers.
Distinctive Features of Red Romance Hydrangea
The Red Romance Hydrangea’s flower color shifts between deep red and rich purple, influenced by soil pH. Alkaline soils (pH 6.5 or higher) produce red or pink flowers, while acidic soils (pH below 6.0) lead to purple or blue blooms. Its large, rounded mophead clusters create a full display.
This deciduous shrub has large, dark green leaves. It grows to a compact, rounded form, reaching 2 to 3 feet (60-90 cm) in height and spread. It blooms from mid-spring to early fall, with buds forming on old wood.
Planting and Site Selection
Red Romance Hydrangea thrives in bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade. While it tolerates some sun, especially in cooler climates, intense afternoon sun can scorch its leaves and cause wilting. Morning sun is ideal.
The preferred soil is rich in humus and well-drained, maintaining consistent moisture without becoming waterlogged. Improve soil drainage by adding organic matter. The ideal planting time is early spring or late autumn, allowing the plant to establish its root system before extreme temperatures. When planting, dig a pit twice the width of the root ball and just as deep, backfilling with amended soil to ensure good root contact.
Ongoing Care for Red Romance Hydrangea
Red Romance Hydrangeas require consistent moisture to support their lush foliage and vibrant blooms. Keep the soil damp but not soggy, checking several times a week, especially during dry or hot periods. Watering thoroughly twice a week is a general guideline. Mulching around the base helps retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds.
Fertilization supports healthy blooms. Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer. Monitor the plant for signs of stress, such as wilting or discoloration, which often indicate watering issues or nutrient deficiencies.
Pruning and Winter Protection
Red Romance Hydrangea blooms on old wood. Pruning should be minimal, primarily focused on removing dead, weak, or inward-growing branches in early spring before new growth begins. Deadhead spent blooms by cutting just below the faded flower to the first healthy pair of buds. Avoid extensive pruning in late summer or fall, as this can remove next year’s flower buds.
Winter protection is important for Red Romance Hydrangea, particularly in colder climates (USDA Hardiness Zones 5-8). Severe winter temperatures, especially those consistently below 0 degrees Fahrenheit, can damage dormant flower buds. Apply a 6-8 inch layer of chunky mulch, such as straw or fallen leaves, around the base after the ground freezes to insulate the roots. In very cold regions, wrapping the plant with burlap or using a protective cage filled with leaves offers additional protection against harsh winds and extreme cold.
Common Problems and Solutions
Red Romance Hydrangeas can encounter several common issues. Yellowing leaves may indicate too much water, causing root rot in poorly draining soil, or a lack of nutrients. Brown spots on leaves are often a sign of fungal diseases, which thrive in moist, shaded conditions. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to help prevent these issues.
Wilting flowers or leaves often result from insufficient watering or too much direct, intense sun, particularly in the afternoon. Provide consistent moisture or move the plant to a location with morning sun and afternoon shade. If flowers are smaller than expected, it might be due to incorrect fertilization. Soil pH imbalances can also affect flower color; adjust with aluminum sulfate for purple hues or lime for red.