Alice hydrangeas are an incredible addition to any garden or landscape. These deciduous shrubs have an upright growth habit and tend to spread through stolons, which are horizontal stems that produce new plants. When fully mature, Alice hydrangeas typically reach a height of 5-8 feet, with a similar width. In optimal growing conditions, they may even grow up to 12 feet tall.
I have personally witnessed the beauty of Alice hydrangeas in various gardens. Their broad rounded habit creates a visually pleasing shape, adding a sense of fullness to the landscape. The height and width of these shrubs make them versatile for different garden designs. They can be used as a focal point in a smaller garden or as a background plant in larger landscapes.
One of the advantages of Alice hydrangeas is their ability to spread through stolons. These horizontal stems allow the plant to reproduce and create new plants, which can be beneficial if you want to propagate them or fill out a specific area in your garden. However, it’s important to keep an eye on their growth and ensure they don’t become invasive or overcrowded.
To maintain the proper size and shape of Alice hydrangeas, regular pruning is recommended. Pruning should be done during the dormant season to remove any dead or damaged branches and to shape the shrub. It’s important to avoid pruning too much, as this can reduce the number of flowers produced in the following season.
In terms of care, Alice hydrangeas thrive in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. They prefer a slightly acidic soil pH and benefit from regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
When it comes to flowering, Alice hydrangeas produce large, showy blooms in shades of white or pink, depending on the soil pH. If you desire blue flowers, you can adjust the soil pH by adding aluminum sulfate or using a specifically formulated hydrangea fertilizer. These vibrant blooms not only add color to your garden but also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Alice hydrangeas are a stunning shrub that can enhance the beauty of any garden or landscape. With their upright growth habit and ability to spread through stolons, they can reach a height and width of 5-8 feet, or potentially up to 12 feet in ideal conditions. Regular pruning and proper care will help maintain their size and shape, ensuring they remain a focal point in your outdoor space.
