Originated in Japan. In the 18 th century, Hydrangeas were brought to England and they quickly became very popular flower throughout Europe Native Americans used the root as a diuretic and detoxifier. The bark of the hydrangea was used to ease muscle sprains and burns and is still used today as a tonic herb to treat bladder problems and kidney stones. Faial Island is an island of Portugal and is commonly called the ‘’blue island’’ due to it’s abundance of native hydrangeas.

No Hydrangea will do well in heavy shade. Most prefer morning sun and afternoon shade. Plant in early summer and fall. Over watering can lead to root rot - so don’t! Transplanting should be done once the Hydrangea has been dormant and lost all its’ leaves.

Hydrangeas root fairly easily, and can even be started in water. Otherwise starting in soil with a root cutting and a growth stimulant propagates just fine. Keep out of direct sunlight and do not over water.

Zone: 6 to 9 Light: Does best in part shade; usually wilts in the afternoon in full sun Moisture: Average; leaves quickly wilt insufficient moisture (or in full sun) Soil type: With ample organic matter pH range: Acid to alkaline

‘Annabelle’ is the most popular variety of Hydrangea arborescens. It’s large white drumstick like blooms can get over 10’’ in diameter and produce every year. ‘Annabelle’ is hardy and does great in the cooler zones.

Lacecaps are characterized by their unique bloom. The centers contain small bud-like blooms and the edge homes open flowers. The flowers of lacecap hydrangeas are not tolerant of excessive sunlight. They do not require much pruning, and bloom on old wood.

The Oakleaf gets its name from the shape of its beautiful large leaves. One of the few Hydrangeas native to the U.S. Oakleaf Hydrangeas do not need much attention to strive, and do well in hot, dry, areas.

The only Hydrangea that can be pruned into a tree form! Paniculata’s can get very large; 8-10 ft. tall and wide is not unusual.

Leaf spot on BigLeaf Hydrangea OakLeaf Hydrangea Anthracnose Armillaria root rot

To help mitigate the damage, prune away dead or diseased areas and dispose of these cuttings away from the garden. Anthracnose causes cankers, which look like sunken areas with raised margins. These can grow large enough to encircle, or girdle, the plant's branches and stems, killing them. anthracnose is not curable, but you can take steps to protect hydrangeas from infection. Anthracnose spores move and multiply in water, so improve soil drainage around the plant.

Hydrangea macrophylla Infected leaves in the lower part of the plant may first be observed in mid-summer with small circular purple spots scattered across them. Cercospora leaf spot is favored by warm weather with frequent rain showers.

Botrytis blight, also known as gray mold, is caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea. This fungus attacks damaged or diseased hydrangea leaves and flowers. Cool conditions encourage this fungus. The key to both preventing and slowing botrytis blight is proper growing conditions. Hydrangea need to be planted and pruned to allow lots of air flow around the plant.

Rubbing the back of the leaves with Rust Disease on it will release an orange dust which contains spores of the fungus. The disease is usually seen near the end of the growing season.

This disease requires humidity to germinate; growing hydrangeas in shady areas increases risk of powdery mildew disease development.

Requires PH of 6.0 – 6.2 Fertilizer with High Level of Phosphorus (25/10/10) Consider growing in large pots for easier control of the PH

Requires Aluminum be present; add aluminum sulphate Lower PH – 5.2 – 5.5; to lower PH, add organic matter – coffee grounds, fruit and vegetable peels and grass clippings. Fertilizer with Low Level of Phosphorus (25/5/30) Avoid nearness to concrete foundation or sidewalks

‘’Hydrangea comes from two Greek words "Hydor" and "aggeion’’ meaning ‘’water vessel’’ According the language of flowers, hydrangea stands for preservation - preservation of love that lasts forever, often used for weddings. Some suggest that the Hydrangeas represent anything that is sincerely heartfelt because it possesses enduring grace and beauty.