Hydrangea "Lady in Red"
This hydrangea was released in 2005 by the esteemed Michael Dirr of the University of Georgia. The name pays homage to the foliage of the plant rather than the flowers (although red blooms can be produced in soils not acidic). The unique foliage makes this hydrangea truly unique and quite spectacular. Red stems and red-veined leaves appear in the spring and as autumn approaches, the leaves turn a rich maroon/purple. It is described as being mildew resistant and hardy to zone 5 with winter protection.
For me, this hydrangea has been one of the most robust growers in our garden. Planted in a bed with five other hydrangeas, "Lady in Red" left them in the dust, quickly attaining a height of 4' and an equal spread. At this writing, it is already that height but the plant habit is neat and compact and is quite attractive in the landscape.
The blooms are the lacecap type and it is a strong bloomer.
The only thing I don't like about this hydrangea - every time I think about it, that schmaltzy 80s song with the same title starts playing in my head.
Comments
It is a beautiful shrub. I've mired the variegated foliage but this is a first for redish tinted leaves.
I will definitely check this one out. It may actually do well enough in my area with some protection. Especially if it is a strong grower and able to recover quickly from winter damage.
Marnie
I had to learn that stupid song in French. So thanks for bringing that scorched memory back to my brain.
Lovely hydrangea though. You've got some nice ones. I have a simple variegated one from cuttings and a Forever and Ever. Last year I rooted 10 cuttings from a very old hydrangea with the deepest purple blooms I've ever seen. I doubt my soil will give me that color, and I'll have to wait until next year to see it bloom. I love the red stems on this one.
Now I, like many others have that cheesy song in my head. It's like the bad smooch record at the end of an 80's disco
Frances
Zone 5...