Hydrangea is a genus of about 70 species of shrubs, trees and climbers in the family Hydrangeaceae, native to southern and eastern Asia.
There are many varieties and different types of Hydrangeas. Their big, bushy head and charismatic flowering blooms in intense colors are magnificent for bouquets and arrangements. Hydrangeas are some of the most popular flowers around. These flowers bring timeless beauty and charm which makes them perfect for any setting!
Name meaning
The genus name comes from the Greek “hydros” (“water”) and “angos” (“jar” or “vessel”). It roughly translates to “water barrel”.
Hydrangea symbolism
Hydrangea symbolizes gratefulness, honest emotions and persevering love.
Hydrangeas represent positive emotions for the people that are close to us, including our family members, therefore they symbolize our family roots, our origin and our past.
They are also known as funeral flowers in some countries and regions.
Hydrangeas can carry negative connotations as well, and can represent vanity and boastfulness.
Interesting facts about Hydrangea
Hydrangea Flower Structure
The big flower head in various colors that many people call the flower is actually composed of what is known botanically as bracts.
Each individual flower is relatively small and carried in bunches at the end of a stem.
Why Do Hydrangeas Change Their Color?
Some Hydrangeas will change color based on the soil pH. It is caused by the presence of aluminium ions.
Hydrangeas are one of very few plants that accumulate aluminium and their color is affected by the presence of aluminium ions.
Acidic soils with a pH of less than 6.0 are high in aluminum causing Hydrangea flowers to turn blue and purple. This is because roots absorb higher level of aluminum.
Alkaline soils with a pH above 7.0 produce pink or even red flowers. In these type of soils, aluminum is tied up and unavailable to plant roots.
In order to change flowers from blue to pink, you need to remove the aluminum from the soil. The best way to do it is to add lime to the soil which will raise the pH level.
In slightly acidic or neutral soil with a pH level from 6.0 to 7.0, flowers appear purple or a mix of blue and pink.
It’s also worth to mention that white Hydrangeas are not affected by pH and they stay white regardless of the soil pH. They will always be white no matter what the soil pH is.
Hydrangea Plant Data
Plant Type:
Climbers, Shrubs, Trees
Color:
The flowers come in shades of blue, purple, white, pink and red.
Hardiness Zones:
3-9
Blooms in:
Spring, Autumn, Summer
Height:
These plants range in size from 60 cm to 12 metres (2 ft to 40 ft) in height, depending on species.
Soil needs:
Hydrangea grows best in moist, but well-drained soil.
