A heat-loving shrub with huge caps of inflorescences came to Europe from Japan in the 18th century. Long time The hydrangea remained a home plant, but both amateur gardeners and professional breeders of the Old World worked hard to bring this fragrant shrub into their gardens. To late XIX century, the work was crowned with success, and fans of the plant received frost-resistant varieties that feel great in temperate climates.
Species and varieties
The hydrangea family has about 100 species. However, not all of them are suitable for planting at their summer cottage and in our garden. climate zone. We found out which types and varieties of hydrangeas for the garden take root well and grow successfully in our latitudes. Let's dwell on the most popular plants among gardeners. These include: panicle hydrangea (White Moth, Floribunda, Unique varieties), tree hydrangea (Anabel and Snowball), serrate hydrangea (Bluebird variety (blue bird)), Sargent hydrangea, petiole hydrangea, oak-leaved hydrangea (Snow Queen and Snow Flake varieties), and the most common garden hydrangea, or large-leaved (Quadricolor, Lilacina, Nigra, Grandiflora, Perfecta, Altona). A little more about each.
- Paniculata- white-cream flowers, collected in pyramidal inflorescences, in the process of flowering take on a pink hue, which by autumn acquires a density of shades. It grows very quickly, so it requires constant pruning. Gives long flowering in autumn.
- treelike- visually resembles viburnum, inflorescences are white-cream, spherical. It grows up to 2.5 m, the leaves are pointed, the flowers fit tightly to each other. Flowering continues from July to September.
- Serrated- this species loves the sun, relatively low (up to 1.2 m), the Bluebird variety is especially beautiful, with delicate blue flowers forming a flat sphere. Long flowering period (June to September).
- Sargent- leaves with a velvety surface, inflorescences are very large (up to 30 cm in diameter), with exquisite color transitions, from deep purple inside and pale pink borders along the edges. Can grow up to 4 meters. Flowering begins at the end of summer.
- Chereshkovaya- refers to curly species, leaves are dark green, stems are red-brown, prefers partial shade, blooms for several weeks in early summer.
- Oakleaf- the leaves are shaped like oak, grows up to 2 meters, the inflorescences are cone-shaped. By autumn, the rough foliage takes on purple and burgundy hues. The flowers are white, in the variety Snow Flake terry.
- Garden, large-leaved- bright green leaves of an oval shape, slightly pointed, with spherical inflorescences, grows up to 2 m. The flowers, depending on the variety, are painted in blue, white and pink shades. Heat-loving, it is necessary to cover for the winter.
Idea!Another species - ashy hydrangea - is often used as a hedge. She has small flowers and dull green leaves.
Features of care
Only with the right and serious approach to the requirements of the plant itself can a positive result be predicted.
AT proper care hydrangea includes:
disembarkation
When choosing seedlings, carefully inspect the root system. The usual practice is to plant the plant in late spring.
Advice!If a root system bush is highly developed, then planting hydrangeas can take place in September. In two or three warm weeks of autumn, he will have time to gain a foothold in the soil and survive the winter well.
Soil preparation for planting consists of adding peat with sand and earth with needles. Dig a hole 50x50 cm, drain. Fill it with soil, if necessary (if the soil is alkaline), add an acidifying fertilizer.
When planting hydrangeas in the spring, the rhizomes should be slightly shortened and cut off annual shoots, leaving only 3-4 pairs of buds. After planting a bush in the soil, water it, wait until the water is absorbed, and mulch with peat or sawdust with a layer of 6-8 cm.
To create a hedge, seedlings are placed at a distance of 0.7-1 m from each other. If you want to get one, but thick and lush bush, take 4-5-year-old seedlings for planting, digging a hole a little less deep (35-40 cm) and 50-70 cm wide.
pruning
Pruning bushes is compulsory procedure no matter what kind of hydrangea plant. With uncontrolled growth, the branches of the bush grow so that they lose their aesthetic appearance. Please note that the first healthy flowering begins in the 3rd year after planting, cut off everything that appears earlier. This will allow the bush to develop properly.
For already established plants, a spring rejuvenating haircut is carried out, aimed at forming a bush. The procedure is carried out before the start of sap flow in the plant. If you notice that the hydrangea inflorescences are weakening and decreasing in size, cut the bush “on a stump” (when cut, only the stems are left 15-20 cm from the ground). The plant tolerates such a cardinal manipulation well and grows rapidly, returning the splendor to the flowers.
Thinning pruning is also necessary for hydrangea hedges. Do it at your own discretion, but not before the bushes gain strength.
Advice!Do not peel the inflorescences by hand, cut them carefully with secateurs so as not to affect upper part branches with buds.
Watering
The heat-loving flower hydrangea loves moisture. It is important that the soil under the bush is always in a state of light moisture. To do this, it is necessary to mulch the soil under the plant twice a year with the help of needles, leaf humus, shavings or bark.
Hydrangea bushes are watered 2 times a week in dry weather, and 1 time if it rained during the week. Under each bush you need to pour 30-50 liters. The water must be soft.
In autumn, on dry days, abundant watering is useful for the plant, it will help the hydrangea to calmly survive the frost.
Advice!With peat-mulched soil, abundant watering of the plant should be carried out less frequently, about 1 time per month.
make-up
Successful cultivation of hydrangeas is impossible without competent feeding. After planting, at the beginning of the growth of the seedling, add superphosphate (30-40 g) under the bush, urea at the rate of 20-25 g per one square meter, sulfuric potassium (30-35 g).
During the formation of buds, the plant needs additional portions of fertilizers: superphosphate (60-80 g) and potassium sulfur (40-45 g).
At the end of August, prepare the hydrangea for wintering by placing 15-20 kg of manure (rotted) or compost under each bush. Treat the branches well with Bordeaux mixture. Closer to mid-October, it is necessary to spud the bushes to a height of about 30 cm, and in November, the hydrangea branches must be bent to the ground and covered with spruce branches.
the beauty personal plot plays no lesser role than its practical significance, and in some cases even more. Beautiful flower bed with flowers is able to decorate even the dullest landscape, constantly raising the mood of its owner. One of the most attractive flowers in the flower beds of households is the hydrangea. A beautiful flower, the number of varieties of which is in the tens, is able to decorate a personal plot with a wide variety of colors and shapes.
Hydrangea is an ornamental flowering shrub. Previously, trees and lianas were attributed to this type of plant, however, at present they are classified as a separate family. The habitat of the wild hydrangea is mainly concentrated in Asia and on the coast. Pacific Ocean. Basically, these are separate regions of China, Japan, the Kuril Islands, Sakhalin. Some plant species are found on the American continent. With its large natural diversity of species and varieties of hydrangeas, only a few of them are cultivated. The most interesting for practical cultivation are:
The remaining varieties of hydrangea flowers are not so common among flower growers, although they are quite attractive.
For the most part, hydrangea is a deciduous plant with opposite, oval, simple leaves. Their size is quite impressive, they have a jagged shape along the edges. The end of the leaf is pointed, and veins are visible along its entire length. There are also evergreen types of hydrangeas. They grow preferably in countries with a warm climate. The flowers of the plant have a rather interesting structure. Conventionally, all hydrangea inflorescences can be divided into two groups:
The color of hydrangea flowers is varied and depends on the variety of the plant. Among the colors of the color, white and cream prevail. At the beginning and end of flowering, the inflorescences have a greenish tint. In almost all varieties of hydrangea, the inflorescences turn pink, especially if they are under the sun. The shape of the inflorescences of the plant is different. Depending on the variety of hydrangea, it can be flat, spherical, semi-flat or pyramidal. All of them are united by the fact that the inflorescence itself is corymbose. In some varieties of hydrangeas, the flowers are arranged randomly, however, as a rule, the fertile ones are located in the center of the inflorescence, while the sterile ones surround them. Hydrangea treelike: varieties
This type of plant is one of the most popular among domestic gardeners. In most cases, tree hydrangea is called "white bush hydrangea"or" white spherical ". This type of plant is a shrub, the height of which is from 1 to 3 meters. This variety is native to North America. The similarity of the climate was the reason that this plant took root perfectly in our latitudes. inflorescences tree hydrangea are spherical or flat shape. Their diameter can reach 20 cm. The inflorescence is formed at the ends of annual shoots, at first the flowers are green, as they bloom, they become white or cream. In the inflorescences of tree-like hydrangeas, fertile flowers predominate, and the number of sterile ones is not large. There are varieties of this type of plant with completely sterile inflorescences. Tree hydrangea is a rather unpretentious plant. It tolerates frost and lack of sunlight very well, so it grows and blooms successfully in shady places. By the beginning of winter frosts, young shoots of tree-like hydrangea do not have time to fully mature and die off, which causes some damage to the shrub. However, after the spring pruning, the plant "comes to life" again and may bloom already this year. In the conditions of our latitudes, tree hydrangea blooms in mid-summer (towards the end of July), which makes it the first among plants of this species. It continues to bloom until late autumn. The most common variety of tree hydrangea is Sterilis. It is distinguished by rather large hemispherical inflorescences, which consist of small sterile flowers, the diameter of which does not exceed 1 cm. Hydrangea paniculata: varieties
The homeland of this plant species is Asia, namely Japan, China and the Eastern regions of Russia (Kuriles, Sakhalin). AT wild nature Panicled hydrangea shrub can reach a height of up to 5 meters. AT garden conditions this type of plant can be grown both in the form of a bush and in the form of a tree - single-stem or multi-stem. Due to the fact that the brown annual shoots of this species become stiff rather quickly, unlike the tree-like hydrangea, the plant tolerates cold very well. Panicled hydrangea inflorescences are formed at the ends of annual shoots. The plant blooms quite abundantly, which pleases the eye of the owners of the plot. Although flower buds appear in early summer (around mid-June), they bloom closer to mid-August. The shape of the inflorescence is predominantly pyramidal. At the beginning of bud formation, flowers are predominantly green color, which, as it blooms, transforms into white or cream. Due to the influence of sunlight, the flowers of this species become pale pink, brick and even pale purple in autumn. By the end of the flowering cycle, the flowers turn back to a faint green color. Like many types of hydrangeas, paniculata is a rather unpretentious plant that can successfully grow in places with a harsh climate. The most popular among domestic gardeners is the Grandiflora variety. It is distinguished by rather large dense inflorescences, the length of which reaches 30 cm. They consist mainly of sterile flowers. At the top of the inflorescence are a small number of fertile flowers. Beyond the beautiful appearance, paniculate hydrangea flowers emit a honey aroma that is attractive to insects. That is why a large cluster of bees can often be observed around the plant. Large-leaved hydrangea: varieties
As for most species of this plant, the birthplace of this variety is China, Japan and the Far Eastern territories of Russia. In the wild, the bush of the plant can reach a height of up to 4 meters. Cultivated plants usually have a height of no more than 2 m. Some varieties of large-leaved hydrangeas that are adapted to growing in flower pots, have a height of no more than 0.6 m. The shoots of plants of this species are green, herbaceous. They become woody only a year after regrowth. This causes a rather low frost resistance of the plant. Like most types of hydrangeas, large-leaved inflorescences are formed at the ends of annual shoots. However, if almost all new shoots of the paniculate hydrangea are covered with inflorescences, then in this species only those that have grown from the upper buds of last year's shoots. The shape and color of large-leaved hydrangea inflorescences are varied. The Japanese variety of culture has umbellate viburnum-shaped inflorescences, while the changeable hydrangea has a hemispherical shape. A feature of the latter type of plant is an unstable color, which depends on the composition of the soil on which the bush grows. If it has the usual balanced composition of minerals, then the plant has a pink inflorescence color. On acidic soils with inclusions of aluminum and iron ions, the color of the inflorescences may be blue. petiolate hydrangea
This type of plant differs from the previous ones in that it is climbing liana. In the wild, and it grows in China, Japan, the Kuriles and Sakhalin, the plant can reach a length of 25 meters. Thanks to aerial roots, this plant can be perfectly attached to any type of support. It grows well and, creeping along the ground, however, in this case, the culture simply does not bloom. Inflorescences are loose umbrellas up to 25 cm in diameter. Pinkish, white-green or lilac shades. The plant is characterized by medium frost resistance. young shoots petiole hydrangea frosts are rather poorly tolerated, so it is better to remove them from the support for wintering under snow cover. Adult creepers can successfully recover even after severe frosts. variegated or variegated hydrangea
similar name this species plants received thanks to its leaf. The fact is that one of its sides is much lighter than the other and has pubescence. Among the varieties of this species, the Bretschneider hydrangea is the most common. This variety is distinguished by strong shoots that quickly become woody, which makes it possible for the plant to calmly endure even very coldy. The leaves of the culture are elongated. Inflorescences - viburnum, like most types of hydrangeas, are formed at the ends of the first-year shoots. At the beginning of flowering, the inflorescences have White color, after a certain time they begin to darken. The middle of the Bretschneider hydrangea inflorescence has a more convex shape. Even after the end of flowering, the inflorescence does not fall off the shoot, but continues to hang on it in a dried form. Due to this, this type of plant is often used to make ikebanas, dry bouquets or herbariums. Like many types of plants, Bretschneider's hydrangea is not whimsical and grows successfully in shady places. The best varieties of hydrangea: video |
Hydrangea is a genus of flowering plants in the Hortensia family. The family mainly includes small trees and shrubs. There are about 80 plant species. It grows in Asia, America, and most species are found in Japan and China. Some varieties have grown well in Russian gardens. The plant got its name in honor of Princess Hortense, sister of the Prince of the Roman Empire, Karl Heinrich of Nassau-Siegen. Japanese name hydrangeas - Ajisai, which translates as "a flower that looks like a purple sun." Used mainly for decorative purposes.
Several dozen species of hydrangeas are known, most of them are low shrubs with large foliage, small trees or lianas. Due to its beauty, the plant can be increasingly found in Russian gardens. Gardeners identify several of the most common species in our latitudes.
Hydrangea paniculata
Hydrangea paniculata
It's incredible beautiful view, is a small tree whose height does not exceed 10 m. It grows in China and Japan, in Russia it can be found on Sakhalin. In nature, it is found on the edges of forests and thickets of oak forests. The leaves of the plant are elliptical in shape, slightly pubescent above, more pubescent below. Their length reaches 12 cm. The flowers are collected in large panicles. They have a wonderful aroma, making them excellent honey plants.
Attention! The culture grows very quickly, so it needs periodic pruning.
It is preferable to plant a plant in shady place, because under direct sunlight, the inflorescences become small. You should also protect panicle hydrangea from the wind. Flowering is plentiful and long, comes in June and lasts until October. This species is resistant to frost, it can withstand up to -25 degrees. Therefore, it is perfect for growing in the central and northern parts of Russia. In the northern zones, it is recommended to plant hydrangeas in the spring. And in those regions where there are no severe frosts, you can land in autumn period. It reproduces well by cuttings. Hydrangea paniculata has an incredible number of varieties.
- Grandiflora- a popular variety with large sterile flowers, gathering in wide pyramids. The flowering period is a little later than other representatives of the species. The flowers are cream-colored during the blooming period, later becoming snow-white, and greenish-red in autumn. This is due to the peculiarity of the variety.
Grade Grandiflora
- Brussels Lace- an elegant variety. It has a considerable number of flowers that bear fruit. A bit similar to Floribunda.
Grade Brussels Lace
- Kyushu- frost-resistant variety. But despite this, the young shoots of the plant can freeze. The flowers have a pleasant smell, have a white color. Some of them are sterile, others are fruit-bearing. Flowering occurs in mid-summer and lasts for 3 months.
- Limelight- a variety with large inflorescences. Shrub with erect stems. Its height is only 2 m. The leaves are green, velvety. Flowers are collected in panicles, the length of which can reach half a meter. Initially they are green in color, but during the flowering period they become cream or white. Flowering begins at the end of July. Duration just over one month.
Grade Limelight
- Mathilda - interesting variety, changing the color of flowers during the entire flowering period. At first they are creamy, then turn white, turn pink and at the end of flowering become red-green.
Variety Mathilda
- Pinky Winky - perennial shrub with white flowers that gather in cones. Over time, they turn into a pinkish tint. Flowering from August to October.
Variety Pinky Winky
- pink diamond- a variety common in Europe and Russia. The flowers of the plant are divided into sterile and fruiting, initially their color is creamy white, later they turn pink and red.
Grade Pink Diamond
- Floribunda- a variety that differs abundant flowering. It has round flowers on long pedicels.
Grade Floribunda
- Unique- low shrub. Grows fast. Flowering occurs in August and lasts until cold weather. Initially, the flowers of this variety are white in color, but then become rich pink. Frost resistant. Looks good in single and group plantings.
- Dart's Little Dot- a bush about half a meter high. Perfect option for small areas. Flowers of a pinkish color are collected in panicles.
Variety Dart's Little Dot
Hydrangea large-leaved (or garden)
Ornamental shrub, perennial. On average, it reaches two meters in height. It has erect stems, does not bear fruit. The flowers are pinkish, lilac, blue or white. Their color depends on the state in which the plant is located and the acidity of the soil. The leaves are simple, green. It is a fast growing species, demanding on the composition of the soil. Dislikes limestone. Flowering continues from August to November.
Heat and light-loving plant. It has an average frost resistance (up to -30 degrees). Therefore, it grows well in the south of Russia. Thanks to agrotechnical efforts, large-leaved hydrangea has reached suburban areas near Moscow. Basically, these are frost-resistant varieties of this species.
Among the most popular varieties are the following:
Hydrangea
Also known as smooth and wild hydrangea. unpretentious plant. It is considered winter-hardy, thanks to which it took special place on the summer cottages in the middle latitudes of our country. Doesn't need cover. Bush of medium height (up to 2.5 m). Stems erect, bare. The leaves are smooth, rounded. Flowers are of different colors.
Prefers shady or semi-shady areas. The plant does not tolerate drought and loves abundant watering. Unpretentious to the ground. Flowering lasts from June to September. Tree hydrangea pruning is carried out annually in winter time. The fastest and convenient way propagation of this species is cuttings.
The main varieties of hydrangea tree:
- Annabelle- the most popular variety of hydrangea tree. It has high frost resistance. The height of the shrub is not more than a meter. The flowers are collected in spherical inflorescences. Perennial. The variety is photophilous, but can grow in the shade. Afraid of drafts. If you water the bush with dye, then its flowers will be painted in the appropriate shade. Blooms from July to September.
Variety Annabelle
- Sterilis- Abundant and long flowering variety. Flowering lasts from July to October. The flowers of the plant at first have a greenish-white hue, later - snow-white. Hydrangea branches bend under their weight.
Variety Sterilis
- Hayes Starburst- a bush with snow-white terry flowers. The height and width are about 1.5 m. It belongs to the 4th frost resistance zone, that is, it can grow at temperatures not lower than 34 degrees. Infrequently exposed to diseases and pest attacks.
Variety Hayes Starburst
- Invincibelle Spirit– innovation in the field of selection. The flowers are dark pink when they bloom, which later changes to bright pink.
Grade Invincibelle Spirit
- Incrediball- large-flowered variety. It has inflorescences in the form of huge balls of white color.
Grade Incrediball
- white dome- a dense shrub, whose height is 80 cm. The leaves are large, green. The flowers are cream, marginal - barren. Perfect for group and single plantings.
Variety White Dome
Hydrangea petiolate (climbing)
A rare variety that is only gaining popularity in Russian gardens. It is a liana, the length of which can reach 25 m. In Russia, it is found in the Kuriles and Sakhalin. It grows vertically, curls along a support (if available). Leaves are smooth and green. Flowers white and pink shade collected in shields. Is an excellent honey plant. Grows in partial shade. Suitable for the southern regions of our country, and also grown in middle lane.
petiolate hydrangea
Attention! Petiole hydrangea is demanding on the composition of soils - it prefers moist loams.
hydrangea oak-leaved
It is a perennial two-meter shrub. It has red shoots. It got its name due to its similarity with oak leaves. White flowers are collected in panicles. Flowering begins in June, and ripening in September.
hydrangea oak-leaved
Prefers rich soils without lime. Watering should be moderate. In central Russia, the bush may freeze, but with age the plant becomes more resistant to frost. Suitable for southern areas. Propagated by cuttings, layering and division of the bush. Pruning is done twice a year - in spring and autumn.
Hydrangea radiata
Shrub up to 2.5 m. Leaves oval-lanceolate, pointed at the top. The plant has many white sterile flowers collected in shields. Flowering begins in July and lasts only one month. Ripening occurs in September. Winter hardiness is low, so the roots should be covered with dry foliage or spruce branches. Grows very fast. Reproduces differently, but the best option is cuttings. Suitable for landscape design in the south of Russia.
Hydrangea radiata
Hydrangea ash (grey)
Shrub with straight stems. Its height is on average 2 m. The leaves are wide ovate. moisture loving plant. Before winter, faded inflorescences are cut off. Relatively winter hardy. Suitable as a hedge. Warm look. A great option for the southern regions of Russia. Inflorescences can be used as dried flowers.
Hydrangea ash (grey)
serrate hydrangea
Tree shrub. Its height can reach 1.5 m in height. Has a spreading crown. The leaves are oval, pointed to the top, bright green color. Annual. Inflorescences resemble the shape of a ball. Inside the inflorescence, the flowers are blue, closer to the edge - pale blue. After flowering they become pink. The color of the flowers depends on the acidity of the soil.
serrate hydrangea
The plant blooms from July to September. Hydrangea tolerates transplants well. Likes moderate watering. Preparation for winter is as follows: wilted inflorescences are cut and covered with a film. In care unpretentious. Not susceptible to diseases and pest attacks. Looks great even as a herbarium. Suitable for landing in the middle lane of our country.
Hydrangea Sargent
The height of the shrub is 2-3 m. It grows rapidly in breadth. Blooms from August to September. Leaves large, opposite. Their length reaches 26 cm. Umbelliferous inflorescences. The flowers are lilac, purple, after flowering - blue and white. Prefers moderate watering. Frost-resistant, but hibernates with shelter, therefore it is grown mainly in southern regions Russia.
Hydrangea Sargent
Hydrangea is a wonderful plant. Mostly floriferous. Demanding on soils, prefers moderate watering. It has become widespread throughout the world. Some varieties that are resistant to frost are grown in Russian gardens. Used in gardening.
All about hydrangea: video
Hydrangea varieties: photo
Hydrangea is a lush and long flowering deciduous shrub. The corymbose inflorescences consist of fertile (bisexual) and sterile (sterile) flowers. They can be arranged chaotically, but more often form viburnum-shaped inflorescences with fertile flowers in the center and sterile along the edge. There are varieties with only one type of flowers. The shield can be flat, spherical, hemispherical or pyramidal. Tree and panicled hydrangeas have taken root well in Central Russia, largely due to their hardiness. In the Moscow region, hydrangeas grow best in the open sun; in the southern regions of Russia, they are recommended to be planted in partial shade. In care, it is important to ensure regular and plentiful watering (it is not for nothing that the Latin name of the hydrangea hydrangea translates as "vessel of water"). O the best varieties hydrangeas, we will describe in detail in our review.
In Russia, varieties of 3 types of hydrangea are common: tree-like, paniculate and large-leaved.
Hydrangea paniculata(Hydrangea paniculata). Shrub or standard tree 2-5 m high. Wild forms are found in Japan and China. Paniculate hydrangeas Differs in dark green leaves and burgundy shoots. Inflorescences are formed on the shoots of the current year. Buds bloom very slowly, so abundant mass flowering occurs in August. The inflorescence is a pyramidal corymb resembling a panicle. At the time of dissolution, a greenish tint is present, then the color becomes pure white or cream, and by autumn, pinkish tones with a brick sheen and again a greenish tint appear. flowering bush attracts bees with its aroma and is a good honey plant. The high frost resistance of the species allows it to be grown even in the North-West region. In the Moscow region, paniculate hydrangeas winter without shelter. Shoots quickly wood and winter well.
Hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens). Shrub 1 to 3 m high, native to North America. Unpretentious and winter-hardy. Likes shading. Able to tolerate short-term drought: drooping leaves "come to life" immediately after heavy watering. Spherical or flat shields are formed on the tops of annual shoots. At the beginning of flowering, the inflorescences have a greenish tint, and in full dissolution they become creamy. Fertile flowers predominate in the inflorescences, and there are few sterile ones. But there are varieties with sterile inflorescences. The shields are large, with a diameter of 10 -15 to 20 cm. It blooms from June to September. Young growth often does not mature and freezes, but after spring pruning, the bush grows well. Freezing does not affect flowering.
Hydrangea macrophylla(Hydrangea macrophylla). Shrub 1 - 2 m high. Leaves in winter with green grassy shoots, which will become woody only next year. This biological feature leads to a strong freezing of young growth in a harsh climate. In winter, all leaves are removed, the shoots are tied, bent to the ground and covered with lutrasil. Inflorescences are not formed on all annual shoots, so flowering is not as plentiful, unlike other types of hydrangeas. Inflorescences in diameter exceed 20 cm. Dwarf varieties good for container growing. The shape and color of the inflorescences is varied. Varieties of the "changeable" variety are able to change the color of the inflorescences depending on chemical composition soil. large-leaved hydrangeas grow best in acidic soils.
Hydrangea is a genus of flowering plants in the Hortensia family. The family mainly includes small trees and shrubs. There are about 80 plant species. It grows in Asia, America, and most species are found in Japan and China. Some varieties have taken root well in Russian gardens. The plant got its name in honor of Princess Hortense, sister of the Prince of the Roman Empire, Karl Heinrich of Nassau-Siegen. The Japanese name for hydrangea is Ajisai, which translates as "a flower that looks like a purple sun." Used mainly for decorative purposes.
Several dozen species of hydrangeas are known, most of them are low shrubs with large foliage, small trees or lianas. Due to its beauty, the plant can be increasingly found in Russian gardens. Gardeners identify several of the most common species in our latitudes.
Hydrangea paniculata
Hydrangea paniculata
This is an incredibly beautiful view, it is a small tree, the height of which does not exceed 10 m. It grows in China and Japan, in Russia it can be found on Sakhalin. In nature, paniculate hydrangea is found on the edges of forests and thickets of oak forests. The leaves of the plant are elliptical in shape, slightly pubescent above, more pubescent below. Their length reaches 12 cm. The flowers are collected in large panicles. They have a wonderful aroma, making them excellent honey plants.
Attention! The culture grows very quickly, so it needs periodic pruning.
It is preferable to plant a plant in a shady place, because in direct sunlight the inflorescences become small. You should also protect panicle hydrangea from the wind. Flowering is plentiful and long, comes in June and lasts until October. This species is resistant to frost, it can withstand up to -25 degrees. Therefore, it is perfect for growing in the central and northern parts of Russia. In the northern zones, it is recommended to plant hydrangeas in the spring. And in those regions where there are no severe frosts, you can plant in the autumn. It reproduces well by cuttings. Hydrangea paniculata has an incredible number of varieties.
- Grandiflora- a popular variety with large sterile flowers, gathering in wide pyramids. The flowering period is a little later than other representatives of the species. The flowers are cream-colored during the blooming period, later becoming snow-white, and greenish-red in autumn. This is due to the peculiarity of the variety.
Grade Grandiflora
- Brussels Lace- an elegant variety. It has a considerable number of flowers that bear fruit. A bit similar to Floribunda.
Grade Brussels Lace
- Kyushu- frost-resistant variety. But despite this, the young shoots of the plant can freeze. The flowers have a pleasant smell, have a white color. Some of them are sterile, others are fruit-bearing. Flowering occurs in mid-summer and lasts for 3 months.
- Limelight- a variety with large inflorescences. Shrub with erect stems. Its height is only 2 m. The leaves are green, velvety. Flowers are collected in panicles, the length of which can reach half a meter. Initially they are green in color, but during the flowering period they become cream or white. Flowering begins at the end of July. Duration just over one month.
Grade Limelight
- Mathilda- an interesting variety that changes the color of flowers during the entire flowering period. At first they are creamy, then turn white, turn pink and at the end of flowering become red-green.
Variety Mathilda
- Pinky Winky- perennial shrub with white flowers that gather in cones. Over time, they turn into a pinkish tint. Flowering from August to October.
Variety Pinky Winky
- pink diamond- a variety common in Europe and Russia. The flowers of the plant are divided into sterile and fruiting, initially their color is creamy white, later they turn pink and red.
Grade Pink Diamond
- Floribunda- a variety characterized by abundant flowering. It has round flowers on long stalks.
Grade Floribunda
- Unique- low shrub. Grows fast. Flowering occurs in August and lasts until cold weather. Initially, the flowers of this variety are white in color, but then become rich pink. Frost resistant. Looks good in single and group plantings.
- Dart's Little Dot- a bush about half a meter high. Ideal for small areas. Flowers of a pinkish color are collected in panicles.
Variety Dart's Little Dot
Hydrangea large-leaved (or garden)
Hydrangea garden - ornamental shrub, perennial. On average, it reaches two meters in height. It has erect stems, does not bear fruit. The flowers are pinkish, lilac, blue or white. Their color depends on the state in which the plant is located and the acidity of the soil. The leaves are simple, green. It is a fast growing species, demanding on the composition of the soil. Dislikes limestone. Flowering continues from August to November.
Heat and light-loving plant. It has an average frost resistance (up to -30 degrees). Therefore, it grows well in the south of Russia. Thanks to agrotechnical efforts, large-leaved hydrangea has reached suburban areas near Moscow. Basically, these are frost-resistant varieties of this species.
Among the most popular varieties are the following:
Hydrangea
Also known as smooth and wild hydrangea. Undemanding plant. It is considered winter-hardy, thanks to which it has taken a special place in summer cottages in the middle latitudes of our country. Doesn't need cover. Bush of medium height (up to 2.5 m). Stems erect, bare. The leaves are smooth, rounded. Flowers are of different colors.
Prefers shady or semi-shady areas. The plant does not tolerate drought and loves abundant watering. Unpretentious to the ground. Flowering lasts from June to September. Tree hydrangea pruning is carried out annually in the winter. The fastest and most convenient way to propagate this species is cuttings.
The main varieties of hydrangea tree:
- Annabelle- the most popular variety of hydrangea tree. It has high frost resistance. The height of the shrub is not more than a meter. The flowers are collected in spherical inflorescences. Perennial. The variety is photophilous, but can grow in the shade. Afraid of drafts. If you water the bush with dye, then its flowers will be painted in the appropriate shade. Blooms from July to September.
Variety Annabelle
- Sterilis- Abundant and long flowering variety. Flowering lasts from July to October. The flowers of the plant at first have a greenish-white hue, later - snow-white. Hydrangea branches bend under their weight.
Variety Sterilis
- Hayes Starburst- a bush with snow-white terry flowers. The height and width are about 1.5 m. It belongs to the 4th frost resistance zone, that is, it can grow at temperatures not lower than 34 degrees. Infrequently exposed to diseases and pest attacks.
Variety Hayes Starburst
- Invincibelle Spirit– innovation in the field of selection. The flowers are dark pink when they bloom, which later changes to bright pink.
Grade Invincibelle Spirit
- Incrediball- large-flowered variety. It has inflorescences in the form of huge balls of white color.
Grade Incrediball
- white dome- a dense shrub, whose height is 80 cm. The leaves are large, green. The flowers are cream, marginal - barren. Perfect for group and single plantings.
Variety White Dome
Hydrangea petiolate (climbing)
A rare variety that is only gaining popularity in Russian gardens. It is a liana, the length of which can reach 25 m. In Russia, it is found in the Kuriles and Sakhalin. It grows vertically, curls along a support (if available). Leaves are smooth and green. Flowers of a snow-white and pink shade are collected in corymbs. It is an excellent honey plant. Grows in partial shade. Suitable for the southern regions of our country, and also grown in the middle lane.
petiolate hydrangea
Attention! Petiole hydrangea is demanding on the composition of soils - it prefers moist loams.
hydrangea oak-leaved
It is a perennial two-meter shrub. It has red shoots. It got its name due to its similarity with oak leaves. White flowers are collected in panicles. Flowering begins in June, and ripening in September.
hydrangea oak-leaved
Prefers rich soils without lime. Watering should be moderate. In central Russia, the bush may freeze, but with age the plant becomes more resistant to frost. Suitable for southern areas. Propagated by cuttings, layering and division of the bush. Pruning is done twice a year - in spring and autumn.
Hydrangea radiata
Shrub up to 2.5 m. Leaves oval-lanceolate, pointed at the top. The plant has many white sterile flowers collected in shields. Flowering begins in July and lasts only one month. Ripening occurs in September. Winter hardiness is low, so the roots should be covered with dry foliage or spruce branches. Grows very fast. It propagates in different ways, but cuttings are the best option. Suitable for landscape design in the south of Russia.
Hydrangea radiata
Hydrangea ash (grey)
Shrub with straight stems. Its height is on average 2 m. The leaves are wide ovate. Moisture-loving plant. Before winter, faded inflorescences are cut off. Relatively winter hardy. Suitable as a hedge. Warm look. A great option for the southern regions of Russia. Inflorescences can be used as dried flowers.
Hydrangea ash (grey)
serrate hydrangea
Tree shrub. Its height can reach 1.5 m in height. Has a spreading crown. The leaves are oval, pointed to the top, bright green color. Annual. Inflorescences resemble the shape of a ball. Inside the inflorescence, the flowers are blue, closer to the edge - pale blue. After flowering they become pink. The color of the flowers depends on the acidity of the soil.
serrate hydrangea
The plant blooms from July to September. Hydrangea tolerates transplants well. Likes moderate watering. Preparation for winter is as follows: wilted inflorescences are cut and covered with a film. In care unpretentious. Not susceptible to diseases and pest attacks. Looks great even as a herbarium. Suitable for landing in the middle lane of our country.
Hydrangea Sargent
The height of the shrub is 2-3 m. It grows rapidly in breadth. Blooms from August to September. Leaves large, opposite. Their length reaches 26 cm. Umbelliferous inflorescences. The flowers are lilac, purple, after flowering - blue and white. Prefers moderate watering. It is frost-resistant, but winters with shelter, therefore it is grown mainly in the southern regions of Russia.
Hydrangea Sargent
Hydrangea is a wonderful plant. Mostly floriferous. Demanding on soils, prefers moderate watering. It has become widespread throughout the world. Some varieties that are resistant to frost are grown in Russian gardens. Used in gardening.
All about hydrangea: video
Hydrangea varieties: photo