Hydrangea aspera Hot Chocolate 3

Hydrangea aspera Hot Chocolate 2

Hydrangea aspera Hot Chocolate 1

Hydrangea aspera Hot Chocolate 3

Categories: Hydrangea, New for 2025, Shrubs

Hydrangea aspera ‘Hot Chocolate’

✅ Out of Stock • Dispatched from our nursery

✅ Free delivery over £59.99

Smaller sizes establish quickly • Larger sizes give a instant impact

Seasonal availability helps us send plants at their best

Exceptional plants, better value

Mix & match • Create your own combination • Pot sizes subject to availability

P9(9cm Pot)

1 Litre(13cm Pot)

3+ plants

£25.00

£30.00

Save 5%

6+ plants

Most Popular!

£45.00

£58.00

Save 10%

9+ plants

£60.00

£80.00

Save 15%

*excludes new for 2026 varieties • to see a full list of excluded plants click here*

Exceptional plants, better value

Mix & match • Create your own combination

P9 (9cm)

1 Litre

3+ plants

£25.00

£30.00

Save 5%

6+ plants

Most popular!

£45.00

£58.00

Save 10%

9+ plants

£65.00

£80.00

Save 15%

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Plant information

Plant Description

Hydrangea aspera ‘Hot Chocolate’ is a hardy deciduous shrub reaching 4m tall, with dark purple leaves and burgundy-red undersides. From summer to autumn, it produces violet-blue and soft pink lacecap flowers that contrast beautifully with its rich foliage, which turns amber and golden in autumn. Low-maintenance and ideal for borders, its blooms may fade to pink depending on soil pH; use Hydrangea Colourant for consistent blue flowers.

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🌿 How to Care for Hydrangea aspera ‘Hot Chocolate’

How much sun do Hydrangea aspera ‘Hot Chocolate’ need?

Hydrangea aspera ‘Hot Chocolate’ do well in full sun to part shade, depending on the species. Ensure they’re planted in spots matching their light requirements for best growth and flowering.

What kind of soil and drainage do Hydrangea aspera ‘Hot Chocolate’ need?

Hydrangea aspera ‘Hot Chocolate’ thrive in well-drained, fertile soil. Before planting, enrich the soil with compost and avoid areas where water pools to reduce the risk of root rot

When and how should I plant Hydrangea aspera ‘Hot Chocolate’?

Plant Hydrangea aspera ‘Hot Chocolate’ in spring or autumn when the weather is mild. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball, position the shrub at its original soil level, backfill gently, firm in, and water well.

How often should I water Hydrangea aspera ‘Hot Chocolate’?

Water Hydrangea aspera ‘Hot Chocolate’ regularly during their first growing season. Once established, most grasses are drought-tolerant and only need water during prolonged dry periods.

Do Hydrangea aspera ‘Hot Chocolate’ need feeding?

Hydrangea aspera ‘Hot Chocolate’ doesn’t require much at all. In fact, too much fertiliser—especially nitrogen—can lead to more leaves and fewer flowers. A light feed in spring is plenty, if needed.

Should I prune my Hydrangea aspera ‘Hot Chocolate’ ?

Yes—regular pruning keeps Hydrangea aspera ‘Hot Chocolate’ healthy and in shape.

Spring bloomers: prune immediately after flowering.
Summer bloomers: prune in late winter or early spring.
Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches each year.

How do I propagate or divide Hydrangea aspera ‘Hot Chocolate’?

Hydrangea aspera ‘Hot Chocolate’ are often propagated by softwood cuttings, hardwood cuttings, or division, depending on the type. Division in spring or autumn helps rejuvenate older plants.

Are Hydrangea aspera ‘Hot Chocolate’ hardy in UK gardens?

Hydrangea aspera ‘Hot Chocolate’ is fully hardy, but some tender types may need winter protection. Planting in well-drained soil and protected spots helps them thrive.

What pests or diseases might affect Hydrangea aspera ‘Hot Chocolate’?

Common issues for Hydrangea aspera ‘Hot Chocolate’ can include aphids, powdery mildew, rust or fungal diseases, especially in overcrowded or damp areas. Improving air circulation and spacing helps prevent problems.

How often should I prune Hydrangea aspera ‘Hot Chocolate’ for health and shape?

Light prunning for Hydrangea aspera ‘Hot Chocolate’ improves airflow and encourages new growth. Rejuvenation pruning may be needed every few years to remove older wood and promote a fresh structure.