Bigleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla)
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Genus:
Hydrangea
This is one of the most widely recognized species of hydrangeas. It boasts a plentiful number of cultivars. The species is divided into two groups: the Hortensias (or "mopheads") have globe-shaped flowers made up of large male flowers, and the Lacecaps have flattened flower heads, with central, female blossoms ringed in larger, male blossoms.
Noteworthy Characteristics:
Lacy, horizontal blossoms and large globes of flowers in rich colors.
Care:
Grow in moist, but well-drained soil, in sun to partial shade. Provide shelter from drying winds. These hydrangeas flower on the previous season's wood, and can be maintained by cutting back just to the first pair of buds beneath the old flower in spring.
Propagation:
Sow seed in a cold frame in spring; take softwood cuttings in early summer, hardwood cuttings in winter
Problems:
Gray mold, slugs, powdery mildew, rust, ringspot virus, leaf spots.
Overview
Height
3 ft. to 6 ft.
Spread
6 ft. to 10 ft.
Growth Habit
Clumps
Growth Pace
Moderate Grower
Light
Full Sun to Part Shade
Moisture
Medium Moisture
Maintenance
Low
Characteristics
Showy Flowers,
Showy Seed Heads
Bloom Time
Fall,
Summer
Flower Color
Blue,
Pink,
Purple,
Red,
White
Uses
Beds and Borders,
Container,
Cut Flower,
Dried Flower
Style
Cottage Garden
Seasonal Interest
Summer Interest
Tolerance
Frost Tolerant
Type
Shrubs