Cityline Venice Bigleaf Hydrangea

Cityline® Venice is a compact, mounded bigleaf hydrangea whose summer mophead blooms open hot pink, can turn blue in acidic soil, and age to green. It grows about 1–3 feet tall and wide; Proven Winners identifies its cultivar as ‘Venice Raven’ and USPP 10,928, whose patent record is dated June 1, 1999 ([cultivar profile](https://www.provenwinners.com/plants/hydrangea/cityline-venice-bigleaf-hydrangea-hydrangea-macrophylla); [patent record](https://patents.google.com/patent/USPP10928P/en)). ## Form and Flowers Glossy green foliage frames rounded flower clusters. It blooms on old wood from early through late summer; flower colors respond to soil acidity and the pink flowers age green. ## Garden Use Use it in a foundation border, low hedge, or mixed planting, or grow it in a container. Its compact size also suits smaller spaces, and its flowers can be cut or dried. ## Growing Conditions Grow in part sun to sun and keep the soil evenly moist but well drained. The breeder lists average water needs and USDA zones 5–9. Bigleaf hydrangeas benefit from protection from hot afternoon sun. [NC State Extension’s species guide](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/hydrangea-macrophylla/). ## Maintenance Pruning is rarely needed. If shaping is necessary, prune immediately after flowering and before August 1 so next season’s old-wood buds remain. In colder northern sites, the breeder recommends winter protection.