Hydrangea macrophylla 'Glowing Embers'

The nectar-rich flowers of 'Glowing Embers' attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it a valuable addition to wildlife-friendly gardens. Its dense growth also provides shelter for small animals and birds.

'Glowing Embers' is a deciduous shrub, offering year-round interest with fresh foliage emerging in spring, bold blooms in summer and fall, and beautiful autumn color before going dormant for winter.

🎨 Accent or Specimen Planting

focal point in smaller beds or shade gardens.

🏡 Foundation Plantings

neat, compact size (approx. 3–4 feet tall and wide), it’s perfect near porches, steps, or along shaded walls.

🪴 Container Gardening

large pots on shaded patios or balconies, where blooms can be enjoyed up close.

🌳 Mixed Shade Borders

ferns, hostas, and woodland perennials, adding structure and color contrast.

💐 Cut Flower Gardens

fresh bouquets and drying.

🍁 Fall Interest

burgundy or bronze tints in autumn, extending the shrub's ornamental season.

The foliage of Hydrangea macrophylla 'Glowing Embers' is made up of dark green, glossy leaves that are large and deeply veined, providing a lush backdrop to the vibrant blooms. In fall, the leaves turn a rich burgundy, adding another layer of interest to the plant. The dense foliage creates a full, rounded shrub that remains attractive throughout the growing season.

• Flowering Season: This hydrangea blooms in mid-summer to early fall, typically from July to September, providing months of vibrant color. The large mophead flowers can last for several weeks and are perfect for late-season color.
• Flower Description: The flowers of 'Glowing Embers' are large, mophead-style blooms that can range from deep pink to reddish-purple, depending on the soil's pH. In acidic soils, the blooms may take on more purple tones, while in alkaline soils, they tend to be a deep pink. Each mophead cluster can reach up to 8 inches in diameter, creating a bold and showy display. The blooms are long-lasting and retain their vibrant color well into fall.

• When to Plant: Plant in early spring or fall to give the hydrangea time to establish its roots before the heat of summer or the cold of winter.
• How to Plant: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and plant at the same depth it was growing in the container. Space plants about 3-5 feet apart to allow for mature growth and air circulation.

Minimal pruning is needed for 'Glowing Embers'. Since it blooms on old wood, it is important to prune immediately after flowering, in late summer, to avoid cutting off next year’s blooms. Lightly prune to remove dead or damaged wood and to shape the plant as needed. Avoid heavy pruning, which can reduce flowering the following season.

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Glowing Embers' thrives in consistently moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid allowing the soil to dry out completely, as hydrangeas prefer a constant level of moisture. Watering at the base rather than overhead is recommended to prevent fungal diseases.

This hydrangea grows best in partial shade but can tolerate full sun if the soil is kept consistently moist. For optimal flowering, plant in a location with morning sun and afternoon shade, as too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to wilt or the flowers to fade.

The large, colorful blooms of 'Glowing Embers' are perfect for fresh floral arrangements or drying. To harvest, cut the flowers when they are fully open and place them in water immediately. For dried arrangements, allow the blooms to air-dry in a cool, dry place to preserve their color.

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms. For blue or purple flowers, amend the soil with aluminum sulfate to increase acidity. For pinker blooms, use lime to raise the soil's pH. A second, light application of fertilizer after the first bloom cycle can help sustain the plant’s vigor.

• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Soil: 'Glowing Embers' prefers rich, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-6.5). Adjust the soil pH if necessary to achieve the desired flower color.
• Disease Resistance: This hydrangea is generally resistant to most pests and diseases, though proper air circulation and avoiding overhead watering can help prevent fungal issues like powdery mildew or leaf spot.

The flowers of 'Glowing Embers' are pollinated by bees and other beneficial insects. While the plant is self-fertile, pollinators enhance the overall health of the garden and contribute to biodiversity.

Hydrangea 'Glowing Embers' thrives in part shade and moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Pair it with plants that complement its rich bloom color and glossy foliage:

🌿 Foliage Contrast & Shade Tolerance

• Hosta spp. – broad leaves and light green to blue tones provide a lush contrast.
  
• Heuchera 'Obsidian' or 'Berry Smoothie' – vibrant or dark foliage enhances the flower color.
  
• Japanese Painted Fern (Athyrium niponicum) – offers silvery texture beneath the hydrangea canopy.
  

🌸 Flowering Companions

• Astilbe – fine, feathery blooms in pink or white create a soft contrast to the bold mopheads.
  
• Campanula – bell-shaped flowers add a different bloom form and blue tones.
  
• Pulmonaria – spring-blooming, spotted foliage and pink-blue flowers for multi-season interest.
  

🌾 Structural and Evergreen Contrast

• Boxwood (Buxus spp.) – provides year-round greenery and formal structure beside hydrangea's seasonal flair.
  
• Pieris japonica – evergreen with spring blooms and bronze new growth that complements Glowing Embers’ red tones.