Hydrangea sp.
Family: Hydrangeaceae
Hydrangea
Origin: Germany
This group consists of hardy and tender shrubs and woody climbers. They are mostly deciduous plants, though a few of the tender species are evergreen. Some varieties produce blossoms with two-toned colors, while some flowers have contrasting eyes, and some may even be speckled or striped with another color. Hydrangeas are rather easy plants to grow. They prefer loamy, well drained, acidic soil (pH 6.5 to 4.5) enriched liberally with organic matter. Most hydrangeas prefer quite a bit of shade, although H. macrophylla and H. serrata will tolerate much more sun, but will still flourish in mottled sun for part of the day. In some species, the flowers change color according to the amount of aluminum and level of acidity in the soil. Propagation: cuttings from April to August.