Hydrangea aspera 'Hot Chocolate' (hydrangea [Hot Chocolate]) is a member of the Hydrangeaceae family. This deciduous shrub exhibits a bushy growth habit and is characterised by its deciduous foliage. It has a hardiness rating of hardy (average winter [-10 to -5ºc]) and is hardy throughout most of the UK apart from inland valleys, at altitude, and in central/northerly locations. May suffer foliage damage and stem dieback in harsh winters in cold gardens, with plants in pots being more vulnerable.
When fully mature, Hydrangea aspera 'Hot Chocolate' can reach an ultimate height of 2.5–4 metres and a spread of 1.5–2.5 metres. For optimal growth, it prefers an east–facing, north–facing, south–facing, or west–facing aspect and a sheltered position. It thrives best in clay, loam, or sand soil types.
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