Introduction to the Varieties and Care Methods of Hydrangeas

Hydrangea, also known as eight-immortals flower and ziyang flower, is a deciduous shrub of the genus Hydrangea in the family Saxifragaceae, named for its large flower clusters that resemble embroidered balls. Its small flowers cluster densely into large spherical or hemispherical inflorescences, with rich colors, commonly pink, blue, purple and white, and the ornamental period is mostly in late spring and early summer.

Common cultivated types include bigleaf hydrangea, panicle hydrangea and oakleaf hydrangea, among which bigleaf hydrangea is the most widely used in courtyard planting and potting. Hydrangea also has an interesting feature: soil pH affects flower color, tending blue in acidic soil and pink in alkaline soil, and many flower enthusiasts use this to adjust the colors they like.

For care, hydrangea prefers a warm, humid, semi-shaded environment, and should avoid scorching sun exposure in summer, otherwise the leaves are easily scorched. It is suitable for growing in fertile, loose and well-drained soil, and needs sufficient water during the growing period, but dislikes waterlogging that rots the roots. Pruning should be done after flowering; improper pruning timing may affect the amount of flowering the next year.

Hydrangea is often used for courtyard arrangements and flower border accents, and can also be potted on a balcony, while cut flower branches can be used as cut flowers. If leaves turn yellow in daily care, it is mostly related to alkaline soil, iron deficiency or improper watering, and timely adjustment of care methods can improve it. It is a home flower with high ornamental value.