| Botanical Name | Hydrangea macrophylla 'Big Daddy' |
| Description | 'Big Daddy' is known for its impressively large mophead blooms and thick, dark green foliage. In the Houston area, it requires protection from the harsh afternoon sun and consistent moisture to thrive. While it prefers rich, organic-rich soil, it can struggle in heavy, compacted clay; adding compost or planting in raised beds is recommended to ensure the drainage and acidity needed for those classic blue or pink blooms. |
| Exposure | Part Shade (Morning sun and afternoon shade is critical in Texas) |
| Height x Width | 5-6' Tall x 5-6' Wide |
| Water | High; requires consistently moist, well-drained soil, especially during summer heat. |
| Zones | 6-9 |
| Fertilization | Use a balanced fertilizer in spring; apply Aluminum Sulfate for blue flowers or Lime for pink. |
| Pruning | Blooms on old wood; prune immediately after flowering ends in mid-summer. |
| Deer Resistance | Low |
| Botanical Name | Hydrangea macrophylla 'Big Daddy' |
| Description | 'Big Daddy' is known for its impressively large mophead blooms and thick, dark green foliage. In the Houston area, it requires protection from the harsh afternoon sun and consistent moisture to thrive. While it prefers rich, organic-rich soil, it can struggle in heavy, compacted clay; adding compost or planting in raised beds is recommended to ensure the drainage and acidity needed for those classic blue or pink blooms. |
| Exposure | Part Shade (Morning sun and afternoon shade is critical in Texas) |
| Height x Width | 5-6' Tall x 5-6' Wide |
| Water | High; requires consistently moist, well-drained soil, especially during summer heat. |
| Zones | 6-9 |
| Fertilization | Use a balanced fertilizer in spring; apply Aluminum Sulfate for blue flowers or Lime for pink. |
| Pruning | Blooms on old wood; prune immediately after flowering ends in mid-summer. |
| Deer Resistance | Low |