hydrangea [Black Steel Blue]

Grow in moist but well-drained, humus rich soil, ideally in light shade, though will tolerate full sun if soil is not too dry. Mulch in spring. Soil additives may be required to maintain specific flower colours; blue colours are best maintained by growing in acidic soil or ericaceous compost. See hydrangea cultivation for more detailed advice

See pruning group 4

Propagate by softwood cuttings in early summer, or hardwood cuttings in winter. As this plant is protected by Plant Breeders' Rights, any propagation should be for personal rather than commercial use

May be susceptible to aphids, scale insects, vine weevil and capsid bug

May be susceptible to grey moulds, powdery mildews, leaf spot, honey fungus and virus diseases