Tinted and Painted Hydrangeas: Techniques, Colors and Care

Every tinted hydrangea starts white. At San Isidro we have grown white hydrangea since 1997, and over the years that white became a canvas: today we offer 36 tint families (each in light, regular and dark) and 23 painting techniques, 255 references in all, each photographed true to color in our catalog.

Hand-painted, one stem at a time

Two ways to color a hydrangea

Absorption tinting: the freshly cut stem drinks a floral dye that travels up to the petals and colors the bloom from the inside, for an even, natural-looking finish. Airbrush painting: layers, gradients and effects are applied by hand over the head, stem by stem. Specialty techniques combine both.

The techniques

• Solid tone (light, regular, dark): one even color; the base of the 36 families.
• Bicolor: two colors on one head with a marked transition.
• Metallic: gold, silver or copper shimmer over the base tone.
• Antique and Vintage: muted, aged tones, a favorite for classic weddings.
• Tie Dye: irregular gradients and spots with an artisanal feel.
• Adrissa and other house techniques developed on the farm.

Matching a brand or Pantone color

Send us the reference. With 23 techniques and 36 families we can usually get remarkably close, and we confirm with photos before you commit. For events, order a trial box ahead of time and check the color under the venue's light.

Care for tinted stems

Same as any hydrangea: fresh diagonal cut, deep clean water changed every two days, a cool spot away from direct sun. Airbrushed finishes hold up well to water, but avoid misting directly onto metallic effects. Stems are cut and tinted the same day, so vase life is not shortened by the process: 7 to 15 days with good handling.

Frequently asked questions

How are hydrangeas tinted?

By absorption (the stem drinks a floral dye that colors the petals from inside) or by airbrush (layers and effects applied by hand over the head). Specialty techniques combine both.

Do tinted hydrangeas last as long as natural ones?

Yes. They are cut and tinted the same day, and with good care they last the same 7 to 15 days in the vase.

How many hydrangea colors can a farm supply?

San Isidro offers 255 references: natural white, 36 tint families in light, regular and dark, and 23 painting techniques such as Bicolor, Metallic, Antique, Vintage and Tie Dye.

Can you match a specific brand color?

Usually, yes. Send the reference and we confirm the closest options with photos before you order.