Contents
Description
Hydrangea Chinensis, also known as Chinese hydrangea, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Hydrangeaceae family. It is native to China and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in many parts of the world. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and has a spread of up to 8 feet. It produces large, showy flowers in a variety of colors, including pink, blue, white, and purple. The flowers bloom in the summer and fall and can last for several weeks.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Hydrangeaceae |
| Genus | Hydrangea |
Appearance
Hydrangea Chinensis has large, ovate leaves that are dark green in color and serrated at the edges. The flowers are large and showy, forming in round or dome-shaped clusters that can be up to 10 inches in diameter. The color of the flowers can vary depending on the soil pH, with acidic soil producing blue flowers and alkaline soil producing pink flowers. The plant also produces small, dry capsules that contain the seeds.
Care Guide
Hydrangea Chinensis requires moderate care to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: The plant should be watered regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH of 5.5 to 6.5 is ideal for blue flowers, while a pH of 6.5 to 7.5 is ideal for pink flowers.- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to wilt.- Hardiness Zones: Hydrangea Chinensis is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hydrangea Chinensis is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and cause them to yellow and curl. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating to form on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control it.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots to form on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and use a fungicide to control it.
Habitat
Hydrangea Chinensis is native to China and is commonly found in forests, thickets, and along stream banks. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Hydrangea Chinensis?
A: The plant should be watered regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the ideal pH for blue flowers?
A: A pH of 5.5 to 6.5 is ideal for blue flowers.
Q: What is the ideal pH for pink flowers?
A: A pH of 6.5 to 7.5 is ideal for pink flowers.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Hydrangea Chinensis?
A: Hydrangea Chinensis is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.
Related Plants
– Hydrangea macrophylla- Hydrangea paniculata- Hydrangea quercifolia- Hydrangea serrata
References
– Dirr, Michael A. “Hydrangeas for American Gardens.” Timber Press, 2004.- “Hydrangea Chinensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c670. Accessed 12 May 2021.- “Hydrangea Chinensis.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/10216/hydrangea-chinensis/details. Accessed 12 May 2021.
