Care of the shrub Hydrangea macrophylla or Hortensia |
The genus Hydrangea, family Hydrangeaceae, comprises 40 species of shrubs, trees and climbing plants native to Asia and America. Some species are: Hydrangea macrophylla, Hydrangea paniculata, Hydrangea arborescens, Hydrangea serratifolia, Hydrangea petiolaris. Common name: French hydrangea, Florist's Hydrangea, Bigleaf Hydrangea, Lacecap hydrangea, Mophead hydrangea, Penny mac, Hortensia. This species is native to Japan. They are deciduous shrubs branched from the base and with an open habit that reach 3 meters (9.84 feet) in height. The leaves are opposite, of an intense green color, elliptical oval shape and with a dentate margin. The showy flowers appear in corymbs and can be red, pink, white or blue. They bloom in summer and early fall. Hortensia is used to form bushy groups, as isolated specimens and in pots for patios, balconies and terraces. It's ideal for gardens by the sea. Hydrangea macrophylla needs a semi-shady exposure and protected from the cold. It resists occasional frosts. The soil must not be calcareous; they prefer a light soil, well drained and containing abundant organic matter. Florist's Hydrangea grows very well in siliceous soils. Water frequently with lime-free water so that the substrate never dries out completely. They do not resist drought. Fertilize with manure, peat and heather or chestnut soil in winter when it does not have leaves. Fertilize in summer every 3 weeks with mineral fertilizer. To get blue flowers there are products that must be applied once or twice a week a month before flowering. Prune the stems that have flowered after the flowering has finished. Hydrangea macrophylla has a tendency to chlorosis so it's advisable to add iron 2-3 times during flowering. The accumulation of water in the roots causes fungal diseases. French hydrangea is propagated by cuttings during the summer; use rooting hormones. |
Images of the shrub Hydrangea macrophylla or Hortensia |