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Showcasing the Classics!

We couldn’t let the selection of sensational Classic Hydrangeas come into their prime without highlighting them.

It’s also the perfect opportunity for us to highlight just what the difference is between ‘Fresh’ and ‘Classic’ Hydrangeas. 

We’ll share the fundamental differences in their character, vase life and why the same varieties can seem to change colour. It’s a quick read but one that can clarify a few queries and let you view the most stunning images!

Pink green Classic hydrangea with gold Ilex - Hydrangea World - Westflor Flower Wholesale.

Fresh and Classic Hydrangea - What's the difference?

Whilst many people think Fresh Hydrangeas and Classic Hydrangeas are different varieties, that’s not the case!
The exact same variety can be both Fresh and Classic and cut from the same plant. The wildly different colour, look and feel is due to the stage at which the flower is cut. Fresh Hydrangeas are cut when the flower head is younger, whilst Classic Hydrangeas are left on the plant to age longer.

Hydrangea Royal love lavender

Hydrangea Royal Parade Classic - Westflor Flower Wholesale

Hydrangea Royal Parade

Hydrangea Verena Light Pink

Swipe left and right to see the same variety in its ‘Fresh’ then ‘Classic’ stage.

Fresh Hydrangea

Fresh Hydrangeas are harvested once the heads have reached their full colour potential. When picked at this stage, we have flowers that bring fresh summer colour – bright, vibrant Hydrangeas that add volume and impact to bouquets, wedding designs, event arrangements and generally herald summer.
Fresh Hydrangea availability throughout the year

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Fresh Hydrangeas are available year-round, although from Holland they are available from around March through to October.
However, Sky Flowers’ signature flower is Hydrangea, so with their premium cut flower Hydrangeas from the highlands of Colombia, Fresh Hydrangeas are available year-round.

Classic Hydrangea

When a hydrangea remains on the plant longer, it begins the natural transition from Fresh to Classic. As the flower matures, the petals gradually develop rich antique shades such as green, burgundy, dusty pink, deep red and other beautiful vintage tones. This natural ageing process is what makes every Classic Hydrangea unique.
There are other advantages that come with the Classic Hydrangeas. As well as their unique timeless look, the fact that they have matured on the plant and are harvested at a later stage results in tougher petals (which are actually modified sepals), aiding an impressive vase life of up to 3–4 weeks with proper care.
From late summer into autumn, Classic Hydrangeas exude the changing season and provide jewel colours that give incredible impact and work so well with other seasonal flowers, foliage and berries.
Is it any wonder they are especially popular for seasonal floral designs, luxury events, statement installations, along with late-season weddings? Their large flower heads add exceptional volume, texture, depth and natural elegance to every design.
Classic Hydrangea availability throughout the year

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Classic Hydrangeas can be available from a few growers as early as June and through to the following February, but the main selection is widely available from mid-August.

Seasonal Change makes for the sensational range!

Here’s the exceptionally talented Hanneke Frankema quickly illustrating the difference between Fresh Hydrangeas and Classic Hydrangeas.

Just a few of the Classics!

↓ Swipe & select to discover more.

Hydrangea World Brochure

Our friends at Hydrangea World have published this catalogue sharing almost all the varieties in both Fresh and Classic form. Flick through to see the selection.

In Summary

From the bright, fresh colours of summer to the rich, changing tones of autumn, Hydrangeas offer an incredible range of colour, character and versatility throughout the season. There are few plant materials that change with the season quite like Hydrangea.

Perhaps the most fascinating thing is that the Fresh and Classic Hydrangeas you love can be the very same variety – simply harvested at different stages of its life.

Do you have a favourite from all the rich jewel-coloured Classic Hydrangeas, or do you prefer them in their summer Fresh form? The beauty is, we don’t have to choose. This time of year, we can enjoy both!

Black Ruby and Cassanova Classic hydrangea arrangement - Hydrangea World - Westflor Flower Wholesale

Images courtesy of Hydrangea World.