Hydrangea vs. Crape Myrtle: Which Is Best For You?

Hydrangeas and Crape Myrtles are two of the most popular shrub varieties to plant in the garden because they offer such a high reward. Both are fairly low-maintenance plants and are available in an array of colors with eye-catching blooms, lush foliage, and attractive stems. 

Not sure which is best for your garden or just need some help picking from these two beloved shrubs? We’re comparing 5 traits to help you decide.

Hydrangea vs. Crape Myrtle: Which Is Best For You?

Hydrangeas and Crape Myrtles are two of the most popular shrub varieties to plant in the garden because they offer such a high reward. Both are fairly low-maintenance plants and are available in an array of colors with eye-catching blooms, lush foliage, and attractive stems. 

Not sure which is best for your garden or just need some help picking from these two beloved shrubs? We’re comparing 5 traits to help you decide.

/
/
Hydrangea vs. Crape Myrtle: Which Is Best For You?

Appearance

Hydrangeas can offer large, mounded blooms, like L.A. Dreamin’® Hydrangea macrophylla, or elongated panicles, like Sweet Starlight™ Hydrangea paniculata. Their flowers are most commonly blue, pink, or white and depending on the type, you’ll get broad green foliage or a darker, oakleaf shape. 

The blooms on Crape Myrtle are smaller in size but make up for it in their punchy rainbow of colors, from hot pink, to red, to grape!

L.A. Dreamin’® Hydrangea macrophylla

Size

When you hear ‘Crape Myrtle’ you may picture the ornamental tree found in many neighborhoods. But since we’re talking about the compact shrub-size of the plant, you can fit them in any small garden. Our Bellini® series matures at 3–4 feet tall and wide. 

Hydrangeas are a bit more varied in size. Some varieties can grow to massive heights, while others, like Li’l Annie Oakleaf™ Hydrangea quercifolia, will stay under 4-feet tall.

Bellini Strawberry
Bellini® Strawberry Crape Myrtle

Soil pH

Pink or blue? It’s a question you should ask yourself if planting Hydrangea macrophylla, also known as Bigleaf Hydrangea. Depending on your soil’s pH level, the bloom color will change on varieties like Double Down® Hydrangea.

Acidic soil promotes blue blooms, and alkaline soils promote pink blooms. Can’t remember which is which? Alkaline and pink both have the letter K! 

Crape Myrtle blooms are not affected by pH, so pick your color and plant away.

Double Down Hydrangea
Double Down® Hydrangea macrophylla

Climate

Crape Myrtle are tolerant of heat and will thrive in warm temperatures and full-sun conditions. Their love of sun and vibrant bloom color gives them their wow factor! My Fair Myrtle® is an excellent addition to gardens that experience less rain and more frequest drought conditions.

On the other hand, Hydrangea prefer mild temperatures and afternoon shade. Too much direct sun and you’ll notice some drooping. Plant them the right way and you’ll be rewarded with amazing flower power.

My Fair Myrtle® Crape Myrtle

Bloom Time

Speaking of flower power…

The fact that Hydrangea enjoy mild temperatures and some shade is why they are a great season extender that thrives when planted in the fall. Hydrangeas typically bloom summer through fall. Oakleaf Hydrangeas, like Autumn Reprise™, are specifically known for late blooming, antique pink flowers, and burgundy fall foliage.

Crape Myrtles are late spring to fall bloomers.

Autumn Reprise™ Hydrangea quercifolia

Hydrangea vs. Crape Myrtle is a a fun decision to make in the garden. Are you ready to find the right shrub for your space? Browse our Hydrangea varieties and collection of Crape Myrtles to get inspired.