In what environment does Hydrangea macrophylla grow best?
Other names for Hydrangea macrophylla
Hydrangea macrophylla is also known as "xiuqiu" (hydrangea). It has other names too, such as "ziyanghua", "fentuanhua" and "caoxiuqiu".
Hydrangea macrophylla'sMorphological characteristics
Hydrangea macrophylla is a deciduous shrub of the genus Hydrangea, with sturdy branches bearing prominent lenticels.
The leaves of Hydrangea macrophylla are relatively thick and large, opposite and obovate, with coarse serrations along the margins; the upper surface is bright green while the underside is yellow-green.
The flower heads of Hydrangea macrophylla are relatively large; the inflorescence is an umbel-like cluster made up of a large number of sterile flowers, borne at the tips of the stems. The flower color changes as it grows, gradually turning from white to blue or pink.
Growth habits of Hydrangea macrophylla
When planting Hydrangea macrophylla, choose a loose, fertile soil with good drainage. Applying aluminum sulfate to the potting soil can deepen the blue flower color, while applying lime can maintain the pink flower color.
Hydrangea macrophylla requires a short daily photoperiod; it needs about 10 hours or more of darkness treatment each day, and will sprout in about 45-50 days. It also normally needs 60-70% shading.
As for water, take care to keep the potting soil moist; in the rainy season, pay particular attention to drainage to avoid adverse situations such as root rot caused by waterlogging.
Value and uses of Hydrangea macrophylla
The value of Hydrangea macrophylla lies mainly in its ornamental qualities; it is an ornamental plant widely grown in the Yangtze River basin.
It is also often planted beside shady groves in gardens or on shaded hillsides.
You can also cut off the flower balls of Hydrangea macrophylla to use as cut flowers, prettily accenting indoor spaces, or simply hang the flower balls on bed canopies and other places for decoration.
The flower language of Hydrangea macrophylla
The name Hydrangea macrophylla comes from the myth and legend of the Eight Immortals, and therefore carries the meaning of "the Eight Immortals crossing the sea, each displaying their own special powers".
Hydrangea macrophylla has different meanings in different countries; in China it represents "hope", "health", "pride" and "happy reunion", while in the United Kingdom it symbolizes "heartlessness" and "cruelty".