June 26, 2025June 14, 2025 by Dusty Hands

How to Grow Lacecap Hydrangea: Your Complete Guide

How to Grow Lacecap Hydrangea

Your complete guide to planting, growing, and caring for these elegant flowering shrubs

Introduction to Lacecap Hydrangeas

Lacecap hydrangeas are distinguished by their unique flower clusters that feature a flat center of tiny fertile florets surrounded by a ring of showy sterile florets. This creates an elegant, lacy appearance that adds refined beauty to any garden.

Unlike their mophead cousins with their full, rounded blooms, lacecap hydrangeas offer a more subtle and sophisticated look that many gardeners prefer for their natural, wildflower-like charm.

The distinctive flat flower clusters of lacecap hydrangeas

Lacecap Hydrangea Quick Facts

Light

Morning sun with afternoon shade; dappled light under trees is ideal

Water

Consistent moisture; 1-2 inches per week; avoid letting soil dry out

Soil

Rich, well-draining, organic matter-rich soil; pH affects bloom color

Size

Typically 3-6 feet tall and wide, depending on variety

Hardiness

USDA Zones 5-9; some varieties tolerate Zone 4

Bloom Time

Summer to fall; typically June to September

Popular Lacecap Hydrangea Varieties

Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Bluebird’

Features deep blue flowers (in acidic soil) with a ring of large sepals surrounding smaller fertile flowers. Known for exceptional cold hardiness.

Hydrangea serrata ‘Mont Aso’

A compact variety with delicate pink flowerheads in alkaline soil or blue in acidic soil. Features attractive fall foliage in burgundy tones.

Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Lanarth White’

Elegant white flowers that aren’t influenced by soil pH. The center fertile florets are cream to light green with pure white outer sterile florets.

Tuff Stuff Ah-Ha™

A reblooming mountain hydrangea with large lacecap flowers and hardier flower buds that resist late spring frosts. Perfect for colder regions.

Planting Guide

When to Plant

Early spring or fall are ideal planting times. Spring planting gives the shrub time to establish before summer heat, while fall planting should be completed at least 6 weeks before the first frost.

Choosing a Location

Select a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade. Too much sun can cause wilting and scorched leaves, while too little light results in fewer blooms. Protect from harsh winds that can damage stems.

Soil Preparation

Prepare a hole twice as wide as the root ball but only as deep. Amend soil with compost or well-rotted manure. Lacecap hydrangeas prefer rich, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter.

Spacing

Space plants 3-5 feet apart depending on the mature size of the variety. This allows for proper air circulation and room to grow to their full potential.

Seasonal Care Guidelines

Spring (March-May)

Pruning: For varieties that bloom on old wood, only remove dead or damaged stems. For those that bloom on new wood, prune in early spring.
Fertilizing: Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer (like 10-10-10) when new growth appears.
Planting: Ideal time to plant new lacecap hydrangeas after danger of frost has passed.
Mulching: Apply 2-3 inches of organic mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Summer (June-August)

Watering: Deep water 1-2 times per week, providing about 1 inch of water each time. Increase during hot, dry periods.
Deadheading: Remove spent blooms to encourage new flowers on reblooming varieties.
Protection: Provide afternoon shade during intense heat to prevent wilting.
Pests: Monitor for common pests like aphids and spider mites; treat as needed.

Fall (September-November)

Watering: Continue watering until the first frost, gradually reducing frequency.
Planting: Early fall is a good time to plant, allowing roots to establish before winter.
No Pruning: Avoid pruning in fall to prevent removing next year’s flower buds.
Clean-up: Remove fallen leaves and debris around the plant to prevent disease.

Winter (December-February)

Protection: In cold climates, protect plants with burlap or frost cloth during severe weather.
Mulch: Apply additional mulch around the base to insulate roots.
Container Plants: Move potted hydrangeas to a protected area like a garage or shed.
Planning: Consider soil amendments for spring if you want to adjust flower color.

Pruning Your Lacecap Hydrangea

Proper pruning is crucial for lacecap hydrangeas as it affects their blooming potential. The key is understanding whether your variety blooms on old wood, new wood, or both.

Old Wood Bloomers (Most Lacecap Varieties)

Prune immediately after flowering in summer
Only remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches
Avoid late-season pruning that removes next year’s flower buds
Examples: ‘Bluebird’, most H. macrophylla varieties

New Wood Bloomers

Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears
Can be cut back by up to one-third their height
Examples: Invincibelle Lace™

Reblooming Varieties

Can bloom on both old and new wood
Light pruning after first bloom to encourage second flush
Examples: Endless Summer® series

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Not Blooming

Causes: Improper pruning, late frost damage, too much shade, excessive nitrogen fertilizer

Solutions: Verify pruning timing for your variety, plant in location with morning sun, use balanced fertilizer, protect from late frosts

Wilting Leaves

Causes: Insufficient water, too much sun exposure, root issues

Solutions: Water deeply and consistently, provide afternoon shade, ensure well-draining soil, check for root diseases

Leaf Spots

Causes: Fungal diseases like Cercospora leaf spot, anthracnose

Solutions: Remove affected leaves, improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, apply fungicide if severe

Powdery Mildew

Causes: Fungal infection, poor air circulation, damp conditions

Solutions: Proper spacing between plants, morning watering, neem oil or fungicide application

Pest Infestations

Common Pests: Aphids, spider mites, Japanese beetles

Solutions: Regular inspection, insecticidal soap, neem oil, encouraging beneficial insects

Winter Damage

Causes: Late spring frosts, harsh winter temperatures

Solutions: Plant in sheltered locations, provide winter protection, choose cold-hardy varieties

Tips for Success

Consistent Moisture

Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Hydrangeas (their name means “water vessel”) need regular watering, especially during dry periods.

Perfect Light Balance

Morning sun with afternoon shade provides the ideal balance for abundant blooms while preventing leaf scorch and wilting.

Rich Organic Matter

Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure into the soil at planting and as a top dressing annually to maintain fertile soil.

Know Your Wood

Understand if your variety blooms on old wood, new wood, or both, to determine the proper pruning time and technique.

Test Soil pH

Use a soil test kit to determine your soil’s pH and make amendments to achieve your desired flower color (except for white varieties).

Shelter from Elements

Plant in locations protected from strong winds that can damage stems and from harsh afternoon sun that can cause wilting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can lacecap hydrangeas grow in full shade?

While lacecap hydrangeas can tolerate shade, they typically produce fewer blooms in full shade conditions. They perform best with morning sun and afternoon shade, or in dappled light under trees.

How do lacecap hydrangeas differ from mophead hydrangeas?

Lacecap hydrangeas have flat flower clusters with small fertile florets in the center surrounded by a ring of larger sterile florets. Mophead hydrangeas have round, full blooms composed primarily of showy sterile florets.

Do lacecap hydrangeas make good cut flowers?

Yes, lacecap hydrangeas make excellent cut flowers. Cut stems early in the morning when they’re well-hydrated and place immediately in water. For longer vase life, remove leaves that would be below the water line.

How often should I fertilize my lacecap hydrangea?

Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer once in early spring when new growth appears. Excessive fertilization, especially with high nitrogen, can promote lush foliage at the expense of flowers.

Can I grow lacecap hydrangeas in containers?

Yes, compact varieties of lacecap hydrangeas grow well in containers. Use a large pot with drainage holes, high-quality potting mix, and ensure consistent watering. Container-grown hydrangeas may need winter protection in colder climates.