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Description
Hydrangea Involucrata, also known as the Blue Hydrangea or Mountain Hydrangea, is a deciduous shrub native to Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. It belongs to the Hydrangeaceae family and is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and parks. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 8 feet wide, producing small, delicate flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Hydrangeaceae |
| Genus | Hydrangea |
Appearance
Hydrangea Involucrata has oval-shaped leaves that are dark green and hairy on top, while the underside is light green and slightly hairy. The flowers are small, measuring only 1-2 cm in diameter, and grow in clusters of 3-5. The petals are pale blue or white, depending on the soil pH, and the center of the flower is a cluster of small, reddish-brown fertile flowers.
Care Guide
Hydrangea Involucrata prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. It is important to water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells. Fertilize the plant once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. The shrub is hardy in USDA zones 5-9, making it suitable for most regions in the United States.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hydrangea Involucrata is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. To prevent these problems, it is important to keep the plant well-watered and fertilized, and to prune it regularly to improve air circulation.
Habitat
Hydrangea Involucrata is native to Japan, Korea, and Taiwan, where it grows in mountainous regions and along streams. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How do I know when to water my Hydrangea Involucrata?
A: Water your Hydrangea Involucrata regularly, especially during dry spells. Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger into the soil. If it feels dry, it is time to water.
Q: Can I grow Hydrangea Involucrata in full sun?
A: Hydrangea Involucrata prefers partial shade, but it can tolerate full sun as long as it is watered regularly and the soil is well-drained.
Q: How do I prune my Hydrangea Involucrata?
A: Prune your Hydrangea Involucrata in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, and thin out the plant to improve air circulation.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for Hydrangea Involucrata?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer once a year in early spring.
Related Plants
- Hydrangea macrophylla
- Hydrangea quercifolia
- Hydrangea arborescens
- Hydrangea anomala
References
- “Hydrangea involucrata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c948.
- “Hydrangea Involucrata.” NC State Extension, 2020, content.ces.ncsu.edu/hydrangea-involucrata.
- “Hydrangea involucrata.” Plant Finder, www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/hydrangea-involucrata.
