Hydrangea Serrata Daredevil or Mountain Hydrangea Daredevil

Daredevil Hydrangea - a Compact Lacecap Hydrangea with Dramatic Foliage and Seasonal Interest

Hydrangea Serrata ‘Daredevil’, also known as the Mountain Hydrangea ‘Daredevil’, is a striking new variety that brings year-round visual appeal to the garden. Its bold, near-black foliage sets it apart from other hydrangeas, providing rich contrast in summer and transforming into vibrant red and scarlet tones in autumn. Combined with its delicate lacecap flowers, this compact deciduous shrub  adds both structure and colour to borders, woodland gardens or  plant containers. This is a show-stopping plant with colour-changing appeal and easy-care qualities.

Dramatic Foliage – Rich Colour from Spring to Autumn
The standout feature of ‘Daredevil’ is undoubtedly its foliage. Emerging in spring a rich, dark burgundy — nearly black in good light — the leaves hold their intense colour through summer, creating a moody, modern backdrop in borders or mixed plantings. As autumn approaches, the foliage shifts to brilliant shades of crimson, scarlet, and deep ruby-red, providing a final burst of seasonal drama.

Lacecap Blooms – Colour Depends on Soil pH
In early to midsummer, ‘Daredevil’ produces elegant lacecap flower heads made up of tiny central fertile flowers surrounded by dainty sterile florets. The colour of the blooms is influenced by soil pH:
On neutral to alkaline soils, expect bright rose-pink flowers.
On acidic soils, the blooms may deepen to rich purplish tones, rather than the classic blue often seen in other hydrangea types.
These blooms gently age and take on red hues that echo the plant’s autumn foliage, adding further interest into the late season.

Height and Width - Daredevil has a Compact Habit – Ideal for Smaller Gardens
Unlike some of the larger macrophylla hydrangeas, Hydrangea serrata is naturally more compact and refined. ‘Daredevil’ typically grows to 1–1.2 metres in height and spread, making it an excellent choice for smaller spaces, urban gardens, or container planting.

Hardy and Easy to Grow
Fully hardy throughout the UK (down to -15°C and below), ‘Daredevil’ copes well with cold winters and performs reliably in sheltered spots. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils and prefers partial shade, though it can tolerate more sun if kept well watered.

Hydrangea Serrata Daredevil Key Facts:

• Foliage: Near-black in spring/summer, fiery red in autumn
• Flowers: Lacecap; pink to blue depending on soil pH
• Hardiness: Fully hardy in UK gardens
• Height and Spread: 1–1.2m high × 1–1.2m wide
• Position: Partial shade preferred; sun tolerant with adequate moisture
• Soil: Moist, humus-rich, well-drained
• Special Features: Striking dark foliage, seasonal colour change, compact habit
• Uses: Ideal for borders, woodland planting, containers, or as a specimen shrub

Care Tips:
Prune lightly in early spring, removing any dead or damaged wood — flower buds are produced on old wood, so avoid hard pruning. For blue-toned flowers, add ericaceous compost or hydrangea colourant; for pink blooms, maintain a more alkaline soil. Mulch annually with organic matter to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

How Hydrangea Serrata Differs from Other Hydrangeas
Native to the mountains of Japan and Korea, Hydrangea serrata is more compact and cold-tolerant than the common mophead types (Hydrangea macrophylla). It features finer leaves, a more delicate overall habit, and often a better resistance to frost damage. ‘Daredevil’ takes these traits further with its uniquely coloured foliage and standout autumn performance — making it one of the most visually striking serrata varieties available.