Hydrangea macrophylla 'Bloomstar' – Endless Summer Blooms in Captivating Bicolour

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Bloomstar', sold under the Endless Summer collection, is a truly exceptional reblooming hydrangea that delivers wave after wave of colour from early summer right through to autumn. Unlike traditional macrophylla varieties that flower only once on old wood, 'Bloomstar' blooms reliably on both old and new growth, making it far more resilient to late frosts or accidental hard pruning and ensuring an extended, generous flowering season.

The flowers are a showstopper in their own right — large, lacecap-style blooms featuring a ring of showy outer florets surrounding a central cluster of delicate fertile flowers. The petals display a striking bicolour effect, with each floret edged or washed in contrasting tones that shift depending on soil pH: expect vivid pinks and rosy reds in more alkaline soils, transitioning to rich mauves and true blues in more acidic conditions. This colour-changing character adds an element of discovery to growing 'Bloomstar' year on year.

Forming a compact, well-branched mound of glossy deep green foliage, 'Bloomstar' is an elegant and versatile garden shrub. Its tidy habit makes it equally at home in formal borders, relaxed cottage gardens, or as a standout feature in a large container on a sheltered patio or terrace.

Why Choose Hydrangea macrophylla 'Bloomstar'?

• Reblooms All Season – Flowers on both old and new wood for colour from early summer to autumn.

• Stunning Lacecap Blooms – Elegant bicolour flowers with intricate detail and real garden presence.

• pH-Responsive Colour – Blooms shift from pink to blue depending on your soil, offering a personalised display.

• Compact & Tidy Habit – Well-suited to borders, beds, and generous containers.

• Cold Hardy – More resilient than many macrophylla varieties thanks to its reblooming genetics.

Planting & Growing Conditions

Position: 'Bloomstar' performs best in a sheltered spot with morning sun and afternoon shade, or in dappled light throughout the day. Avoid harsh, exposed positions or prolonged deep shade, which can reduce flowering. A south- or west-facing sheltered border or patio is ideal in cooler climates.

Soil: Thrives in fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil enriched with plenty of organic matter. Soil pH has a significant influence on flower colour — acidic soils (pH 5.5 and below) encourage blue and mauve tones, while neutral to alkaline soils produce pinks and reds. Incorporate ericaceous compost or aluminium sulphate to encourage bluing, or garden lime to promote pink shades.

Hardiness: Hardy in most UK and temperate European conditions, though young growth emerging in spring can be susceptible to late frosts. Planting in a sheltered position and applying a protective mulch over winter will help safeguard the plant and its overwintering buds.

Care & Maintenance

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, particularly during warm or dry spells. Hydrangeas are thirsty plants and will wilt quickly under drought stress — regular deep watering is far more beneficial than frequent light watering. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Feeding: Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser in early spring as growth resumes. A specialist hydrangea feed or ericaceous fertiliser will support healthy foliage and abundant blooms. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds, which can promote leafy growth at the expense of flowers.

Pruning: Because 'Bloomstar' blooms on both old and new wood, avoid cutting back hard in the way you might with arborescens varieties. Instead, in early spring, remove only dead, damaged, or crossing stems, and lightly tidy the overall shape. Deadhead spent blooms after flowering or leave them for winter interest and some protection to the buds below. If old wood is damaged by frost, cut back to healthy buds once the risk of frost has passed.

Design & Planting Ideas

• Plant in a sheltered mixed border alongside roses, salvias, and geraniums for a classic cottage garden feel.

• Use as a standout specimen in a large glazed container on a shaded patio or courtyard.

• Combine with hostas, ferns, and astilbes in a lightly shaded woodland-style planting for complementary texture and form.

• Mass plant for a dramatic seasonal display, particularly effective when multiple plants transition through their colour range together.

• Excellent as a cut flower — the lacecap blooms are long-lasting in a vase and can also be dried for indoor arrangements.

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Bloomstar' is a sophisticated and rewarding garden shrub that earns its place year after year through sheer flower power and adaptability. Whether you are drawn to its elegant lacecap blooms, its season-long performance, or its enchanting colour-changing character, 'Bloomstar' is a variety that consistently delights — from

Guide to Planting Field-Grown Root Balled Plants

Pros:

1. Established Roots: Typically stronger, established roots ensure better initial growth.
2. Immediate Impact: Larger plants provide instant structure and aesthetics.

Cons:

1. Heavy and Bulky: Can be difficult to transport and plant due to size and weight.
2. Seasonal Availability: Generally available only in the dormant season (autumn to early spring).

Preparation for Planting:

1. Unwrap Carefully: Remove any packaging material, but leave the burlap or wire basket on.
2. Keep plants moist: Plants should be kept moist until the time of planting.

Planting Process:

1. Dig a Hole: Make a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth.
2. Position Plant: Place the root ball in the hole, ensuring the top is level with the ground surface.
3. Do Not Remove Root Sack: Leave the burlap or wire basket around the root ball. It is bio degradable and will rot away naturally.
4. Backfill: Fill the hole with soil, firming gently around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
5. Water: Water deeply after planting to settle the soil and avoid wilting.

Possibility of Losses:

• Initial Shock: Some plants may suffer transplant shock, leading to potential losses.
• Mitigation: Proper care and consistent watering during the establishment phase can minimise this risk.

Main Causes of Failure:

1. Improper Planting Depth: Planting too deep or too shallow can stress the roots.
2. Poor Soil Conditions: Compacted or poorly drained soil can hinder root growth.
3. Insufficient Watering: Both under-watering and over-watering can lead to plant stress and failure. Strong wind can dry leafy pants.
4. Pest and Disease: Lack of protection and monitoring can result in damage from pests and diseases.

Tips for Success:

1. Stake Larger Plants: Support with stakes to prevent wind damage.
2. Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
3. Regular Monitoring: Check for signs of stress, pests, and disease, and address them promptly.

By following these guidelines and providing consistent aftercare, you can successfully plant and establish field-grown root balled plants in your garden.

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Does the height include the pot?

No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description

How long does delivery take?

Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.

Where will you leave my plants?

We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.