August Shrub of the Month-Variegated Hydrangea
We continue with our Year of the Hydrangea, featuring one of the most frequently asked about plants in my garden: the variegated hydrangea Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Mariesii’.
I use these prolifically in my shady areas instead of variegated hostas since we have such issues with voles and slugs. They brighten up the dark corners of the garden with their striking leaf variegations and provide a mid-layer of structure that is sometimes lacking in shade gardens full of mature trees and low perennials, with nothing in between.
Like their sister, the big-leaf hydrangeas (H. macrophylla), the variegated versions are not reliable bloomers in the northern zones of their ranges, including St. Louis.
And guess what? I don’t care.
Unlike the Endless Summers or Nikko Blues that everyone is so fond of, when a variegated hydrangea doesn’t bloom, it’s barely noticed. But when they do bloom-wowzers. A lacecap bloom in shades of pink or blue, depending on your soil pH, similar to other big-leaf, lacecap bloomers like Twist-n-Shout.
Like other big leaf hydrangeas (June Shrub of the Month-Big Leaf Hydrangea), the variegated versions require shade, especially in the afternoon. Ample water is necessary to prevent droopy leaves, which can quickly turn crispy if not addressed promptly. A sheltered spot could help with blooming since they bloom on old wood, but even this is no guarantee in zones 5-6.
Mature size is about 36″ tall and wide. They look great alone or in groupings and pretty much steal the show in a shady shrub border or shade garden, where the white variegation stands out against darker greens.
What I love about this plant;
-Stunning foliage.
-Great substitute for variegated hostas, or variegated red-twig dogwoods that are not long-lived.
-Few pests or diseases.
-Low maintenance.
What’s not so great;
-Does not flower reliably after harsh winters.
-Does require higher-than-average water needs.
-Hard to find locally in the trade. I’ve either found mine hidden within the perennial selection or by mail-order.
-Comments or questions? Email Garden-Lou at gardenloustl@gmail.com
Words and photos by Jo Batzer
© Jo Batzer, garden-lou.com-2025, All rights reserved.
