How to Grow and Care for Hydrangeas

The bigleaf hydrangea is a deciduous shrub native to Japan, and is known for its lush, oval, colorful inflorescence. The two types of Hydrangea macrophylla are mopheads - with large, ball-shaped, sterile flower clusters, and lace capes - with small round fertile flowers in the center, and sterile flowers on the outer side of each inflorescence. Depending on soil pH, blooms can change color from pink to blue.

The oakleaf hydrangea is native to the southeastern United States, generally found from North Carolina down to Florida. Discovered by William Bartram in the 1770s, it is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens as well as parks.

Smooth hydrangea (*Hydrangea arborescens*) is a deciduous shrub, naturally found on streambanks, gorges, and wooden slopes in many parts of Northern America. It is commonly recognized by its showy inflorescences - big white corymbs which bloom during summer. Smooth hydrangea is often cultivated as an ornamental, and it is an excellent choice for a border plant.

The panicle hydrangea is native to Japan and China. It is commonly used as a winter cultivated flower due to its hardiness. This small tree can grow between 91 cm and 5 m with a maximum diameter of 2.5 m. Its leaves contain cyanide and should not be ingested.

The mountain hydrangea is a deciduous shrub that blooms in summer and autumn. It is native to Japan and Korea. The scientific name of this species, Hydrangea serrata, means "water vessel" and refers to the shape of its fruit. It is often planted on borders near homes and patios.