Start growing
Needs consistent moisture (Hydra = water). Prefers morning sun and afternoon shade.
GROW SOMETHING WONDERFUL
Hydrangea
Hydrangea macrophylla
Your guide to planting, growing, and getting to know this plant.
THE PLANT NOTEBOOK
Hydrangea care, from seed onward.
- Botanical name
- Hydrangea macrophylla
- Common names
- Bigleaf Hydrangea, Mophead
- Family
- Hydrangeaceae
- Genus
- Hydrangea
- Species
- H. macrophylla
Growing with your kit
The Seeds In A Cup® Chemistry Lesson: Add alum to your kit to turn flowers blue, or lime to turn them pink!
Propagation
By softwood cuttings (very easy) or seed.
Seasonal growth & harvest
Blooms in early summer; blossoms persist and dry on the stem for winter interest.
Growing conditions
Coastal areas and mountain forests.
Weather & tolerances
Moderate salt tolerance; zero drought tolerance.
Pests & plant health
Aphids, slugs, and powdery mildew.
Plant safety
All parts are toxic if ingested (contains cyanide).
Botanical features
A deciduous shrub famous for its large flower heads (mopheads or lacecaps) that change color based on soil pH.
Varieties
‘Endless Summer’, ‘Nikko Blue’.
Garden & everyday uses
Premier ornamental for shade gardens. excellent dried flowers
Native range & distribution
Native to Japan.
Conservation
Secure garden staple.
Name origins
From the Greek ‘hydor’ (water) and ‘angeion’ (vessel), referring to its cup-shaped seed capsules.
History
First brought to Europe from Japan in 1736; became an iconic flower of the French and English coastlines.