The Hydrangea (“Hortensia” in Spanish) is a genus of about 75 species of flowering plants native to eastern Asia, North America and South America. It symbolizes heartfelt emotions and can be used to express gratitude.

One of the neat things about the Hydrangea is that it can change color on its own (from blue to pink and pink to blue) either naturally induced by the environment or by the grower.

The color varies depending on the PH level of the soil. Soils with a higher level of acidity produce Hydrangeas that are blue, while soils with a neutral PH produce very pale, ivory petals. Alkaline soils generally produce flowers that are pink or purple. Growers need to be knowledgeable about when and how to do it or they will get problematic colors, sometimes referred to as “blurple” tones.

Hydrangea is a popular, ornamental plant that is grown for its large flower head. The massed, spherical form and supple texture of Hydrangea blooms makes them a preferred choice in upscale floral arrangements. Hydrangeas are popular wedding flowers but require special care.  Because hydrangeas have woody stems, they have poor water absorption. As such, bouquets and arrangements should be prepared as close as possible to the actual ceremony and kept refrigerated and hydrated until ready for use.

Though there are many different species of Hydrangeas, the most popular is Hydrangea macrophylla. Most Hydrangeas are bushes but there are some varieties that are small trees or climbers.

Related articles

• Four ways to make your hydrangeas blue (villagegardener.wordpress.com)