Killed 2????
Are you sure you didn't kill them with kindness?
We have grown several of them, H aspera (Villosa Group), H. kawakamii, H. sargentiana & H. strigosa, for several years and they receive no special attention. I even forget to water some of them during the driest periods and they will wilt and droop, but come around when watered or when it rains.
Like most hydrangeas, they need moist soil, but good drainage.
I never amend the soil when planting Hydrangeas and some are in red clay, but on a slope, where there is good drainage.
I have some growing in large pots, using composted ground pine bark (Nature's Helper), milled sphagnum peat moss & Perlite.
Potted one's will need winter protection if temperatures fall below ~15°F, unless they are in a sheltered location.
Having said that, all of ours fared better this past winter (without protection) than the majority of the macrophyllas and serratas, many of which were killed down to their roots, for the first time ever!
I would try them again, as they are just beginning to flower, thereby filling the gap between the fading macs & serratas and the later flowering H. paniculatas.
Rb

Note-
Hydrangea kawakamii, H. sargentiana & H. strigosa are closely related to H. aspera and are sometimes sold as cultivars, varieties or subspecies of H. aspera, but are recognized in the Flora of China as distinct species.

Ouch! I guess low spot + red clay + Hydrangea + H2O = death
I actually did grow H. aspera ssp. macrophylla very well on a hillside under a cherry in Newnan. Just wondered what other experiences were. thanks

Hey..dont know if you are interested but I believe Specialty Ornamentals in Watkinsville sells them...bobby