Big Leaf Hydrangea

About this plant

Known for its stunning, multi-toned mophead flowers, 'Painted Sky Portfolio' is a true showstopper. Its large, intricately colored blooms shift between shades of pink, purple, and blue depending on soil pH, creating an ever-evolving spectacle throughout the summer. This deciduous shrub provides consistent color and a lush, full form, making it an excellent choice for borders, container plantings, or as a vibrant specimen plant. Its robust growth and prolific flowering ensure a long season of beauty. Ideal for adding a touch of romance and dramatic flair to any garden design. Its generous blooms are also perfect for cutting, bringing their captivating beauty indoors.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Prefers moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and keep roots cool. Prune after flowering to shape and remove spent blooms. For bluer flowers, amend soil with aluminum sulfate; for pinker flowers, use garden lime.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.