Hydrangea ‘Penny Mac’

A Repeat-Blooming Hydrangea!

7-inch flowerheads in early summer and again in fall!

At last, a Hydrangea for the far north, where late frosts kill off the buds of other varieties. ‘Penny Mac’ reblooms heavily in fall on new wood, so even if you miss the first flush, great color awaits you in the shady garden! And such color it is! This photograph was taken in early August. Now, in mid-September, I have new flowers arising all over my ‘Penny Mac’ — which means that at least in warm climates, this Hydrangea is pretty much an everbloomer.You’ll love these big 7-inch clusters of deep blue, offset by lush, simple foliage of dark green.

They look splendid on the shrub, and are gorgeous in fresh arrangements. You can even let them dry to a lovely powder-blue and use them as Everlastings all winter.’Penny Mac’ was named for one of the founders of the American Hydrangea Society, Penny MacHenry, so you know it’s a proven performer. The shrub reaches 5 feet tall and 4 feet wide, making it ideal as a foundation planting, specimen, accent, or back-of-the-border standout! It thrives in partial to full shade and moist, well-drained soil. Very tolerant of heat and humidity, it appreciates regular watering during dry spells.

‘Penny Mac’ is a fine companion to other flowering perennials in the border, such as Heucheras and Heucherellas. If you are adding it to the shrub border, consider planning for an entire summer of Hydrangea bloom by pairing it with beautiful ‘Endless Summer.’ Space our 2-year-old plants about 4 feet apart and water well during growth. ‘Penny Mac’ is hardy in zones 5-9.