With their long-blooming life cycle and transformation from colourful globes to sculptural flowerheads in autumn, it's no wonder hydrangeas are a popular feature in gardens across the UK. But, one of the most commonly asked questions (partly down to the inclement British weather), is can you grow hydrangeas in the shade?
As with most plants, growing hydrangeas means following certain guidelines to get the best results. The good news is that shady areas are suitable for hydrangeas – but with some conditions attached.
From the type of plant through to soil management, here's what you need to consider when growing hydrangeas in shade, or north-facing plots.
1. Choose the right variety of hydrangea for your garden
There are several points to think about when growing hydrangeas in the shade, with the most important one being the type of hydrangea you plant.
"Hydrangeas can absolutely grow in shade, but the key is choosing the right variety for your garden’s light conditions," says Paul Hooper, plant buyer at British Garden Centres.
"For dappled shade or spots with afternoon cover, Hydrangea macrophylla (bigleaf hydrangea) and Hydrangea quercifolia (oakleaf hydrangea) are your best bets."
In general, hydrangeas typically dislike harsh sunlight, so these hardworking shrubs have become staple plants for shade. In addition to choosing the right type, the following tips will also help, and could be one of the reasons why your hydrangea isn't blooming as you'd hoped.
"Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris at Sarah Raven is one of the very best shade-loving hydrangeas, making it the ideal choice for a north-facing garden," adds plantswoman Sarah Raven. "The flowers and seedheads look excellent by a shady wall and only require a light pruning to remove dead or damaged stems.
"Hydrangea arborescens 'Incrediball' at Sarah Raven is another standout addition that can brighten up any shady corner or space," she continues. "With its large heads and pale flowers it makes a versatile addition to so many gardens. Lightly prune it to the ground for a shorter, sturdier habit that takes up less space," she advises.
Shop for hydrangeas
This clmbing hydrangea suits a north-facing wall or fence
Position this plant in dappled shade for best results
Paul Hooper is a Plant Buyer at British Garden Centres, managing the buying of structural plants like hedging and topiary alongside everyday garden shrubs. He also sources specialist varieties, from hydrangeas and acers to heathers and rhododendrons.
Sarah’s love of gardening extends to all areas, from growing cut flowers and delicious vegetables from seed, to designing stunning gardens packed full of variety, colour and scent. Always with a focus on helping the environment and biodiversity, Sarah’s gardens are havens for birds, bees and other pollinators.
2. Look for spots with dappled sunlight
The majority of hydrangeas prefer to grow in partial shade and dislike strong sun. Hydrangea macrophylla make up many popular varieties of hydrangea. They like dappled shade and are easy to grow.
It's important to note that most varieties call for part shade, which is different from full shade. They will still require some sunlight throughout the day, though hot spots in full sun are not the preferred conditions for hydrangeas.
This isn't to say that hydrangeas won't also do well in bright spots along with other plants for sun. Varieties such as Hydrangea Macrophylla Glam Rock, available at Primrose, can be planted in full sun or partial shade and will flower from July to October.
As a general rule of thumb be advised that some direct sun is tolerated in a UK climate, but light shade, shielded from the harsh midday sun is best for hydrangeas.
3. Choose an area where the soil is moist and cool
Hydrangeas love soil that is nutrient-rich and well-draining, they also like to be in moist and cool conditions. Moisture is not guaranteed in shaded spots so it's important to bear this in mind when siting your hydrangea.
Shaded areas under trees and next to structures like garden walls or fences are notoriously dry. This is because they are sheltered in great part from rainfall. Most hydrangeas won't fair well in dry soil. Hydrangeas love a soil that is nutrient-rich and well-draining.
"Hydrangea Macrophylla (Big Leaf Hydrangea) is also more sensitive to waterlogged, constantly wet conditions, but is also less drought tolerant," notes Paul Hooper. Hydrangea quercifolia can tolerate semi-shade with short-term drought. However, I have personally underplanted macrophylla and quercifolia types in 2025 in dry shade, and neither plant performed well," he warns.
Consider growing groundcover plants around your hydrangeas as this is a natural way to keep the roots lovely and cool. Try tiarella or vinca minor as companions to your hydrangea plant.
FAQs
I don't have any shady spots, what hydrangeas can I plant?
If you only have sunnier spots left for planting hydrangeas, or perhaps you are growing hydrangeas in pots, to boost your patio or decking ideas, "both bigleaf and oakleaf types love early morning sunlight," says Paul Hooper.
"If you have a sunny spot with at least six hours of sunlight, try Hydrangea paniculata (panicle hydrangea), which thrives in full sun," he adds. "Hydrangea arborescens (smooth hydrangea) also handles full sun well, especially in cooler climates.
Some varieties of hydrangeas also make good climbing plants which can be trained over garden structures, making them an ideal plant for screening as well. Alternatively, if you need larger specimens to cover a greater area, these are the best trees for privacy.
