- Common name:
- Hydrangea, Mophead Hydrangea
- Regional name:
- Marathi, Hindi - Hydrangea, Manipuri: Thamapansapi Lei
- Category:
-
Shrubs, Groundcovers, Indoor Plants
- Family:
- Saxifragaceae
-
Hydrangea macrophylla, also known as bigleaf hydrangea or French hydrangea, is a popular flowering shrub native to Japan and Korea. It is widely grown for its large, showy blooms that come in a variety of colors, including pink, blue, purple, and white. Here is some information about growing, caring for, and the benefits of hydrangea macrophylla plants:
Growing Hydrangea Macrophylla:
- Hydrangea macrophylla is a deciduous shrub that typically grows to a height of 3-6 feet and a spread of 4-6 feet.
- It prefers a moist, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH (between 5.2 and 5.5).
- Plant hydrangea macrophylla in a location with partial shade or filtered sunlight, as full sun can cause the leaves to wilt and the flowers to fade quickly.
- Water regularly, especially during hot, dry weather, to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilize in early spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer.
- Prune hydrangea macrophylla after it blooms to remove any dead or diseased wood and to shape the plant as desired.
Caring for Hydrangea Macrophylla:
- To encourage large, showy blooms, consider adding aluminum sulfate to the soil to lower the pH and make it more acidic. This will help the plant absorb aluminum, which is necessary for blue flower coloration.
- Hydrangea macrophylla can be susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Regular monitoring and treatment can help prevent and control these issues.
- Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain moisture in the soil and suppress weeds.
- Hydrangea macrophylla can be propagated by stem cuttings, layering, or division in the spring or fall.
Benefits of Hydrangea Macrophylla:
- In addition to their aesthetic value, hydrangea macrophylla plants have a few potential benefits. Some studies suggest that they may have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties due to the presence of compounds such as quercetin and kaempferol in the leaves and flowers.
- Hydrangea macrophylla is also used in traditional medicine to treat conditions such as urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and rheumatism, although more research is needed to determine its efficacy for these purposes.
