Cherry-Go-Round™ Hydrangea

Cherry-Go-Round™ is the trade name for Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Hokomaburlac’, a compact reblooming bigleaf hydrangea. Its dome-shaped flower heads open pale green with red edges and near-white centers, then mature to cherry red; it blooms in early summer and repeats in late summer and fall. ### Flowers and garden use Growing about 2–3 feet tall and wide, Cherry-Go-Round suits small gardens, borders, mass plantings, and containers. The very dark green foliage adds color between bloom cycles. Flower shades also respond to soil conditions: alkaline soil brings out brighter reds, while acidic soil can deepen the flowers toward purple-red. See [The Tree Center’s cultivar page](https://www.thetreecenter.com/cherry-go-round-hydrangea/) for the selection’s size, zones, color, and flowering details. Plant where it receives some sun and some shade; morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal. Rich soil with consistent moisture supports flowering, and deep shade reduces bloom. The [NC State Extension guide](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/hydrangea-macrophylla/) provides additional bigleaf hydrangea growing guidance. The cultivar name is ‘Hokomaburlac’, and its U.S. plant patent is PP34,379, granted June 28, 2022; the [patent record](https://patents.google.com/patent/USPP34379P2/en) documents the denomination. ## Maintenance Water well when newly planted and while flower buds develop; maintain moist soil and use mulch to reduce moisture loss. This hydrangea is not drought tolerant. In spring, wait until buds begin to swell, then remove dead or weak wood with light pruning. Keep the tips of budded stems intact, since those shoots will flower.