HYDRANGEA

There are about 100 species of deciduous and evergreen shrubs, trees, and climbers in this genus. They are native to eastern Asia and North and South America, where they grow in moist woodland areas. Though famed for their profusion of cheerful blooms, the foliage, with large oval leaves, often with serrated edges, makes a pleasant back-drop. Flowerheads are made up of very small fertile flowers surrounded by larger, eye-catching, 4-petalled, sterile florets. They may be conical, flat-topped (lacecap), or rounded (mophead), and usually emerge in spring and summer. Colors range from white through to red, purple, and blue and, in Hydrangea macrophylla, these can vary depending on the soil-acid soils produce blue flowers and alkaline soils produce reds and pinks.


CULTIVATION


This is an adaptable genus suitable for a range of situations. Position in sun or dappled shade with good composted soil, and feed lightly. Propagate from seed or tip cuttings in spring, or hardwood cuttings in winter.


Top Tip


Hydrangeas are equally at home in borders, in group plantings, or in containers, but they do need some protection from cold winds.