Jul 24, 2025

Monrovia marks 100 years with debut of hydrangea ‘Centennial Ruby’

In 2026, Monrovia will celebrate its century in horticulture with the debut of a radiant new hydrangea: ‘Centennial Ruby’. The new variety has deep ruby-red blooms that darken as they mature to create a dramatic, color-shifting display of blooms.

Available in a limited basis to Monrovia customers next year, ‘Centennial Ruby’ Hydrangea will be the sparkling gem of the company’s 100th anniversary season. The first 5,000 plants will include a special tag with a limited-edition number. With a limited quantity of plants available for Monrovia customers, it is sure to become a collector’s item.

“When we saw this hydrangea in our trials, we knew it was special,” said Jonathan Pedersen, CEO and president of Monrovia. “This is the dramatic red hydrangea everyone has been waiting for with intense color and outstanding garden performance. It is the perfect plant to celebrate Monrovia’s milestone.”

Centennial Ruby combines visual impact with performance: strong, sturdy stems support large blooms that last more than 100 days, and the sturdiness of the plant makes it ideal for changing weather conditions. This hydrangea macrophylla stays compact, topping out at 3 feet tall and wide. Its petite size and long-lasting blooms make it perfect as a front border or container plant. It is recommended for Zones 4 to 9.

“Centennial Ruby will be the marquee of our 2026 marketing,” said Katie Tamony, CMO and trendspotter for Monrovia. “Its rich, saturated color speaks to design and garden trends. Gardeners are craving bold, romantic tones, and this plant really delivers that something special.”

Photo courtesy of Monrovia.com by Doreen Wynja.