Hydrangea Macrophylla Snowball

Description

Hydrangea Macrophylla Snowball is a stunning deciduous flowering shrub that belongs to the Hydrangea family. It is a cultivar of the Hydrangea Macrophylla species and is native to Japan. Snowball is known for its showy, large white globular flower heads that bloom in the summer. The flowers have a diameter of up to 12 inches and are surrounded by lush, dark green foliage. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide and is an excellent addition to any garden.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Hydrangea Macrophylla Snowball has large, round flower heads that are white and can reach up to 12 inches in diameter. The flowers bloom in the summer and are surrounded by lush, dark green foliage. The leaves are large and have a heart-shaped appearance with serrated edges. The shrub can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide, making it an ideal addition to a garden or landscape. Its beauty is further enhanced by the fact that it changes color from white to pink as it ages.

Care Guide

Hydrangea Macrophylla Snowball requires proper care to thrive and produce beautiful blooms. Here are some tips to help you care for this plant:

• Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer to promote healthy growth and blooming.
• Soil: Plant the Snowball in well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: The plant thrives in partial shade to full sun. Ensure it gets at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day.
• Hardiness Zones: The Snowball is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Hydrangea Macrophylla Snowball is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common:

• Aphids: These insects suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to curl and yellow. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
• Spider mites: These pests are tiny and difficult to see. They damage the leaves by sucking the sap. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
• Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves. Ensure the plant is not crowded and receives adequate sunlight and airflow.
• Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating on the leaves. Ensure the plant is not crowded and receives adequate sunlight and airflow.

Habitat

Hydrangea Macrophylla Snowball is native to Japan but is now cultivated in many parts of the world. It thrives in partial shade to full sun and requires well-draining, fertile soil. It is hardy in USDA zones 6-9 and can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide.

Question and Answer

Q: Can I grow Hydrangea Macrophylla Snowball in a container?

A: Yes, you can grow Snowball in a container. Ensure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots and use well-draining soil.

Q: Can I prune my Hydrangea Macrophylla Snowball?

A: Yes, you can prune Snowball to control its size and shape. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Hydrangea Macrophylla Snowball?

A: Fertilize the plant in the spring and summer using a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and blooming.

Q: Does Hydrangea Macrophylla Snowball attract bees and butterflies?

A: Yes, Snowball attracts bees and butterflies with its large, showy blooms.

Related Plants

• Hydrangea Paniculata
• Hydrangea Arborescens
• Hydrangea Quercifolia
• Hydrangea Serrata

References

• “Hydrangea Macrophylla ‘Snowball'” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed April 22, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c999
• “Hydrangea Macrophylla ‘Snowball'” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed April 22, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/59316/Hydrangea-macrophylla-Snowball/Details
• “Hydrangea Macrophylla ‘Snowball'” Plant Lust. Accessed April 22, 2021. https://www.plantlust.com/plants/17438/hydrangea-macrophylla-snowball/