Hydrangeas are one of the most popular plants in America. They can be grown indoors or outside in the garden, allowing their blooms to be enjoyed at any time of the year.
The two most popular types of hydrangea are mophead (Hydrangea macrophylla) and lacecap (Hydrangea macrophylla normalis). Mopheads have large, rounded heads, while lacecaps have a smaller cluster of flowers surrounded by a halo of larger flowers around their edge.
Less well-known, but just as lovely, are the Hydrangea paniculata and the oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia). The paniculata hydrangeas get their name from the beautiful panicle-shaped (kind of cone-shaped instead of ball-shaped) clusters of blooms. Oakleaf hydrangeas also have cone shaped clusters, but get their name from the shape of their leaves, which will often turn color (just like oak leaves) in the autumn.
Most hydrangeas grown today come in shades of pink, blue or white. In most macrophylla varieties, the color can be altered with the addition of lime or aluminum sulfate. In most paniculata and oakleaf varieties, the blooms change color as they age.
Outside, hydrangeas prefer in a morning sun, afternoon shade location and look great when planted under trees or other larger shrubs. Keep them watered on a regular basis so the soil is moist but not wet. Most hydrangeas perform best when fed a couple of times during the growing season with an acid food.
We have a great selection of hydrangeas available. Come on by and take a look.