Flower Glossary: Hydrangea

Also visit our Hydrangea Symbolism + History page.

 A genus of around 70 species, the Hydrangea is a deciduous flowering plant that is native to southern and eastern Asia and North and South America. Mostly appearing as shrubs that grow to around one to three meters tall, some species of Hydrangea can, however, grow up to 30 meters high by climbing up trees.

There are two types of flowers that grow on Hydrangeas: the mophead flower and the pompom flower. Each of the flower’s shapes appears a little like each name implies. Hydrangea flowers bloom from early spring to late autumn and grow in flowerheads which contain an assortment of small fertile flowers surrounded by larger, sterile flowers. Highly popular as an ornamental plant, most species of Hydrangea feature white flowers. However, Hydrangeas can also appear with pink, blue, red or even dark purple flowers. The exact color of the Hydrangea flower often corresponds to the PH of the soil in which it is growing. Acidic soil produces blue flowers, whereas neutral soils produce white blooms and alkaline soils produce pink or purple blooms.

Except in very cool or moist climates, Hydrangeas require shade or part-shade as both the leaves and flowers are susceptible to scorching. Soil should be constantly moist and well drained. When growing outside, shelter from wind that can spoil the foliage and flowers and cut back in early spring to promote vigorous growth. The most popular Hydrangea species among gardeners include the climbing Hydrangea, smooth Hydrangea and bigleaf Hydrangea.

As for potted Hydrangeas, place in a bright location that benefits from indirect sunlight. Then at night, for best care, move the Hydrangea to a spot with temperatures between 50 and 60 F. Then, water the plant regularly by soaking the plant in a tray of water. As with outdoor planted Hydrangeas, the potted Hydrangea benefits from moist, yet well-drained soil. If potted Hydrangeas are displayed outside, move indoors before first frost. Avoid displaying an indoor potted Hydrangea in front of a window as this can cause flower color to fade.

 (Images provided by AFIF)