Hydrangea aspera 'Hot Chocolate'

Hydrangea aspera 'Hot Chocolate' is a handsome deciduous shrub with soft chocolate burgundy coloured leaves and violet-blue lacecap-like flowers in mid to late summer. The older leaves generally turn to dark green as they age.

An excellent plant for adding a bit of foliage colour to a border in light, dappled or partial shade. Avoid hot and sunny positions to reduce the risk of leaf scorch in summer.

• Position: Light, dappled or partial shade.
• Soil: Moist yet well drained, fertile soil.
• Hardiness: Hardy.
• Flowering Period: June - September.
• Rate of Growth: Moderate.
• Habit: Hydrangea aspera 'Hot Chocolate'  grows to be a medium sized branching shrub with a rounded habit once established.
  • Height: eventually 2.5 - 3 m (8 - 10 ft) / or 2.5 m (8 ft) after 10 years
  • Spread: 2.5 m (8 ft) / or 2.5 m (8 ft) after 10 years

• Pruning: Remove dead or damaged stems in late winter or early spring.