Maybe it caught a late frost just as leaves we're emerging?

That would be my guess give the weather we've been having.

Frost damage - we've got the same problem here.

Mine still have last years flower heads and look ok...at the moment.....

My hydrangeas always get hit by frost 1st and 2nd week in May. They will improve! I still have a couple of last years flowers on too Pam!

Dont like them.......But they like shade and shelter and very wet soil from my experience. And Iron if you like the blue flowers.

Thanks guys - yes warm March followed by frost! At least they'll recover. You don't even like the lacecaps Japon?

Thanks guys, you're right. warm March, then frost. Do you not even like the lacecaps Japon?

I don't like them much either, Japon - prefer the lacecap varieties, but still not keen.