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Hydrangea is a rounded shrub with huge, deciduous, opposite, serrated, medium to dark green leaves. It is usually seen at 3-6 ft (0.9-1.8 m) with an equal spread, but older specimens can exceed 8 ft (2.4 m)! Flowers are arranged in huge, ball shaped clusters on the most common varieties. There are many selected varieties (and many hybrids), the most striking of which is a variegated-leaf form that bears flat, or lace-capped inflorescences. Flowers on most hydrangeas are pH-sensitive, with dark purple or blue flowers in acidic soil, white or dull green in neutral earth, and pink in alkaline soil. Hydrangeas make beautiful foliage in warm months. Flowering is best in areas with mild winters, since the plant blooms on previous year’s growth. French hydrangea may be evergreen in very mild winter areas. In its northernmost range, hydrangea is a foliage shrub, since flower buds are killed in hard winters. Location
Culture
In climates where hydrangea flowers, place in a mixed shrub border or at the back of a flower bed. Its rich foliage and large size make it a wonderful background for white or light colored flowers, even tall growing perennials and annuals. In warm climates French hydrangea is perfect for adding a splash of springtime color to shady areas and woodland gardens. As a specimen, it can be fabulous, and the larger the more so. Minimal pruning is recommended for most prolific flowering. Flowers are easily air dried and are long lasting. They may be spray painted for color or left in their natural state and treated with hair spray to stiffen and preserve. Features Steve Christman 6/13/97; updated 12/5/99, 5/26/01, 2/12/04, 5/27/07
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