Hydrangeas are a favorite among florists for their lush blooms, vibrant colors, and versatility in arrangements. This guide covers popular hydrangea varieties and bouquet styles, offering practical advice for creating stunning floral designs.

Hydrangea Varieties

Hydrangeas come in several species and cultivars, each with unique characteristics suited for different bouquet styles. Below are the most common varieties used in floral design:

1. Hydrangea Macrophylla (Bigleaf Hydrangea)

• Description: Known for large, rounded flower heads in mophead or lacecap forms. Colors range from pink, blue, purple, to white, often influenced by soil pH.
• Bloom Size: 5–10 inches in diameter.
• Best Use: Statement pieces in bouquets due to their bold size and color. Ideal for romantic or classic arrangements.
• Care Tips: Keep well-hydrated; stems can be woody, so cut at an angle and use floral preservative. Blooms last 5–10 days in arrangements.
• Popular Cultivars: ‘Endless Summer’ (repeat bloomer), ‘Nikko Blue’ (vibrant blue), ‘Blushing Bride’ (soft white).

2. Hydrangea Paniculata (Panicle Hydrangea)

• Description: Features conical flower heads with a mix of fertile and sterile flowers. Colors are typically white, fading to pink or green as they age.
• Bloom Size: 6–12 inches long.
• Best Use: Adds texture to modern or rustic bouquets. Great for cascading or elongated designs.
• Care Tips: Hardy and long-lasting (7–14 days). Trim stems regularly and keep in cool water to extend vase life.
• Popular Cultivars: ‘Limelight’ (greenish-white), ‘Pinky Winky’ (white to pink), ‘Vanilla Strawberry’ (creamy white to rosy pink).

3. Hydrangea Arborescens (Smooth Hydrangea)

• Description: Produces large, rounded blooms, typically white or pale green. Less sensitive to soil pH than macrophylla.
• Bloom Size: 4–8 inches in diameter.
• Best Use: Perfect for minimalist or garden-style bouquets. Works well as a filler or focal flower.
• Care Tips: Prone to wilting; submerge blooms in water for 30 minutes before arranging to revive. Vase life is 5–8 days.
• Popular Cultivars: ‘Annabelle’ (large white blooms), ‘Incrediball’ (sturdy stems, white flowers).

4. Hydrangea Quercifolia (Oakleaf Hydrangea)

• Description: Distinctive oak-shaped leaves and elongated, conical blooms. Colors are white, turning pink or burgundy in fall.
• Bloom Size: 4–12 inches long.
• Best Use: Adds a wild, natural look to rustic or woodland bouquets. Foliage is a bonus for texture.
• Care Tips: Leaves and blooms last 7–10 days. Mist foliage to maintain freshness.
• Popular Cultivars: ‘Snow Queen’ (large white blooms), ‘Ruby Slippers’ (white to deep pink).

5. Hydrangea Serrata (Mountain Hydrangea)

• Description: Smaller, more delicate version of macrophylla with lacecap blooms. Colors include pink, blue, and white.
• Bloom Size: 3–5 inches in diameter.
• Best Use: Ideal for compact bouquets, such as posies or boutonnieres, due to their smaller size.
• Care Tips: Sensitive to dehydration; keep in water and avoid direct sunlight. Vase life is 5–7 days.
• Popular Cultivars: ‘Bluebird’ (soft blue), ‘Tuff Stuff’ (compact, reblooming).

Bouquet Styles Featuring Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas’ versatility makes them suitable for various bouquet styles. Below are popular styles, their characteristics, and how to incorporate hydrangeas effectively:

1. Classic Round Bouquet

• Description: Symmetrical, dome-shaped bouquet with a polished, timeless look. Often used for weddings or formal events.
• Hydrangea Role: Use macrophylla or arborescens as the focal flower due to their large, rounded blooms. Pair with roses, peonies, or ranunculus for a lush effect.
• Design Tips:
  • Choose one or two hydrangea colors (e.g., white and blue) for cohesion.
  • Use greenery like eucalyptus or ferns to frame the bouquet.
  • Secure tightly with floral tape for a compact shape.
• Example Combination: White ‘Annabelle’ hydrangeas, blush roses, and silver dollar eucalyptus.

2. Romantic Garden Bouquet

• Description: Loose, organic style mimicking a freshly gathered garden look. Ideal for bohemian or outdoor weddings.
• Hydrangea Role: Mix paniculata and serrata for texture and scale. Their conical and lacecap blooms add a natural, airy feel.
• Design Tips:
  • Combine with wildflowers like cosmos or daisies for a relaxed vibe.
  • Use soft ribbons or twine to tie for a rustic finish.
  • Vary stem lengths for an asymmetrical look.
• Example Combination: ‘Limelight’ paniculata, lavender, and baby’s breath.

3. Cascading Bouquet

• Description: Dramatic, trailing bouquet with a waterfall effect. Popular for bridal or statement arrangements.
• Hydrangea Role: Paniculata’s conical blooms work well for the trailing portion, while macrophylla adds volume at the top.
• Design Tips:
  • Use floral wire to support trailing elements like ivy or jasmine.
  • Place larger hydrangeas at the center, with smaller blooms and greenery cascading downward.
  • Ensure a sturdy handle for easy carrying.
• Example Combination: ‘Pinky Winky’ paniculata, white orchids, and trailing amaranthus.

4. Minimalist Posy Bouquet

• Description: Small, simple bouquet with a few stems, often for bridesmaids or casual events.
• Hydrangea Role: Serrata’s smaller blooms are perfect as the main feature or paired with a single accent flower.
• Design Tips:
  • Use one hydrangea bloom with minimal greenery (e.g., dusty miller) for a clean look.
  • Wrap stems in satin ribbon for elegance.
  • Keep stems short for easy handling.
• Example Combination: ‘Bluebird’ serrata and a single white calla lily.

5. Rustic Woodland Bouquet

• Description: Earthy, textured bouquet with natural elements like wood or berries. Suited for outdoor or fall events.
• Hydrangea Role: Oakleaf hydrangeas add a wild, foliage-heavy look. Their leaves and color-changing blooms enhance the rustic aesthetic.
• Design Tips:
  • Incorporate twigs, berries, or pinecones for texture.
  • Use burlap or lace to wrap stems.
  • Mix with thistles or protea for a rugged charm.
• Example Combination: ‘Ruby Slippers’ oakleaf, hypericum berries, and cedar branches.

General Tips for Working with Hydrangeas

• Hydration: Hydrangeas are water-loving; dip cut ends in boiling water for 30 seconds or use a hydration solution to prevent wilting.
• Color Coordination: Choose varieties that complement the event’s color scheme. For example, blue macrophylla for a coastal theme or pink paniculata for a sunset palette.
• Seasonality: Most hydrangeas bloom from late spring to fall, with peak availability in summer. Check with local growers for specific cultivars.
• Storage: Store in a cool, shaded area (35–40°F) to maintain freshness before arranging.
• Mixing Textures: Pair hydrangeas with contrasting textures (e.g., spiky astilbe or soft lamb’s ear) to add depth to bouquets.

Hydrangeas are a florist’s dream for their versatility, vibrant colors, and ability to suit various bouquet styles. By selecting the right variety and pairing it with complementary flowers and foliage, you can create stunning arrangements for any occasion. Experiment with these varieties and styles to craft bouquets that leave a lasting impression.