Hydrangea macrophylla ‘King George’ – A Classic Mophead Hydrangea with Bold Summer Colour
Hydrangea macrophylla ‘King George’ is a traditional and much-loved mophead hydrangea, prized for its large, rounded flower heads and reliable summer performance. Blooming from mid-summer through to early autumn, it produces impressive domes of flowers in rich shades of pink on alkaline soils or blue on acidic soils, creating a dramatic focal point in borders and containers.
With its lush green foliage and compact, rounded habit, ‘King George’ brings structure, colour, and elegance to the garden throughout the growing season.
Why Grow Hydrangea ‘King George’?
Large, Showy Mophead Flowers
‘King George’ forms substantial, globe-shaped flower heads that make a bold statement in the garden and are excellent for both fresh and dried flower arrangements.
Colour-Changing Blooms
The flower colour responds to soil pH—blue in acidic soils and pink in neutral to alkaline soils—allowing gardeners to influence the display.
Compact & Well-Shaped
Reaching around 1–1.2m in height and spread, this variety is ideal for smaller gardens, mixed borders, or large containers.
Reliable & Easy to Grow
Hardy and dependable, ‘King George’ performs well in sheltered positions and rewards gardeners with consistent flowering year after year.
Height and Spread
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Height: 1–1.2m
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Spread: 1–1.2m
Where to Site Your Hydrangea ‘King George’
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Borders & Shrub Beds: Creates a strong focal point
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Containers & Patios: Ideal for pots near entrances or seating areas
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Cottage & Woodland Gardens: Complements soft, natural planting schemes
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Shaded Areas: Thrives in light or dappled shade
How to Grow and Care for Hydrangea macrophylla ‘King George’
Soil
Prefers moist, fertile, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Mulch annually to conserve moisture.
Light
Best grown in partial shade, though it tolerates morning sun. Protect from strong afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch.
Watering
Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Hydrangeas dislike drying out, particularly when in flower.
Maintenance
Pruning
Prune lightly in spring, removing dead flower heads and frost-damaged stems. Avoid hard pruning, as flowers form on old wood.
Feeding
Feed in spring with a fertiliser for hydrangeas or flowering shrubs.
Winter Protection
In colder areas, protect buds from frost with fleece or mulch.
Perfect Plant Combinations
Hydrangea ‘King George’ pairs beautifully with hostas, ferns, astilbes, and shade-loving perennials. Combine with evergreen shrubs for year-round structure or other hydrangea varieties for a dramatic summer display.
Conclusion
Hydrangea macrophylla ‘King George’ is a classic mophead hydrangea offering large, colourful blooms, lush foliage, and reliable garden performance. Ideal for borders and containers, it brings elegance and long-lasting colour to shaded garden spaces.
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.