Cityline Mars Bigleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla 'Cityline Mars')Cityline Mars Bigleaf Hydrangea is a compact, strong-stemmed mophead valued for bi-color blooms with crisp white edges that open pink in neutral to alkaline soils or deepen to violet in acidic soils. Dense foliage and tidy habit deliver high-impact color on a small footprint for foundations and borders.Distinctive FeaturesSturdy, non-flopping stems support large, white-edged flower heads that shift from clear pink to deep violet with soil pH; glossy, high-quality foliage and naturally compact growth reduce maintenance.Growing Conditions Sun Exposure: Morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal; avoid hot, reflected exposures. Soil: Moist, well drained, humus-rich soil; color shifts with pH and aluminum availability. Water: Keep evenly moist, especially during bud and bloom; do not allow prolonged dryness. USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 9. Mature Size: About 1.5 to 3 ft tall and 2 to 3 ft wide. Ideal Uses Focal Point: White-edged, pink to violet mopheads create striking seasonal displays. Foundation Planting: Compact habit fits windows and entry beds without flopping. Mixed Borders: Pairs with hostas, ferns, and summer perennials. Containers: Performs in large pots with consistent moisture and shade. Cut Flowers: Long-lasting heads for fresh arrangements. Low Maintenance Care Watering: Water deeply and regularly in summer; mulch to keep roots cool and moist. Pruning: Bloom primarily on old wood; prune lightly after flowering to shape and remove spent heads. Fertilizing: Feed in spring with a balanced fertilizer; for violet tones use soil acidifiers with aluminum, for pink tones use garden lime. Mulching: Maintain a 2 inch organic mulch, keeping it off the stems. Notes: Protect swelling buds from late frosts; avoid heavy spring pruning that removes flower set. Why Choose Cityline Mars Bigleaf Hydrangea? Bold Bi-Color: White-edged heads shift from pink to deep violet with soil chemistry. Compact Form: Strong, short internodes resist flopping and suit small spaces. High-Quality Foliage: Dense, glossy leaves enhance summer display. Versatile Placement: Equally at home in borders, foundations, and containers. Reliable Performance: Consistent flowering with minimal pruning needs. Provide morning sun, afternoon shade, steady moisture, and light post-bloom pruning to maintain dense growth and richly colored, white-edged flowers.
