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Description
Hydrangea Macrophylla Early Blue is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the family Hydrangeaceae. It is native to Japan, China, and Korea and is known for its stunning blue or pink flowers that bloom in early summer. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 6 feet wide and features large, dark green, serrated leaves. The flowers are formed in clusters and can be up to 8 inches wide, creating a stunning show in any garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Hydrangeaceae |
| Genus | Hydrangea |
Appearance
Hydrangea Macrophylla Early Blue is a beautiful plant that can add a pop of color to any garden. The plant features large, dark green, serrated leaves that can grow up to 8 inches long. The flowers are formed in clusters and can be blue or pink, depending on the acidity level of the soil. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide, making it an excellent choice for a focal point in a garden. The flowers bloom in early summer and can last for several weeks, making it a perfect plant for those who love the summer season.
Care Guide
Hydrangea Macrophylla Early Blue is a relatively easy plant to care for, as long as you follow a few simple guidelines. Here are some tips on how to care for this stunning plant:- Water: Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Hydrangeas prefer well-draining soil, so make sure the soil is not too compacted.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to weak growth and fewer flowers.- Soil: Hydrangeas prefer acidic soil with a pH level between 5.0 and 6.0. If your soil is too alkaline, you can add sulfur to lower the pH level.- Sunlight: Hydrangeas prefer partial shade, especially during the hottest part of the day. Too much sun can lead to burnt leaves and fewer flowers.- Hardiness Zones: Hydrangea Macrophylla Early Blue is hardy in zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like any plant, Hydrangea Macrophylla Early Blue can be susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common issues to watch out for:- Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. It can be treated with fungicide.- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing damage to the leaves and flowers. They can be treated with insecticidal soap.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause damage to the leaves and flowers by sucking the sap from the plant. They can be treated with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Hydrangea Macrophylla Early Blue is native to Japan, China, and Korea and prefers a humid climate. It thrives in partial shade and prefers well-draining soil with a pH level between 5.0 and 6.0. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide and is an excellent choice for a focal point in a garden.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Hydrangea Macrophylla Early Blue grow in full sun?
A: Hydrangea Macrophylla Early Blue prefers partial shade, especially during the hottest part of the day. Too much sun can lead to burnt leaves and fewer flowers.
Q: What is the best time to prune Hydrangea Macrophylla Early Blue?
A: The best time to prune Hydrangea Macrophylla Early Blue is in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: How often should I water Hydrangea Macrophylla Early Blue?
A: Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Hydrangeas prefer well-draining soil, so make sure the soil is not too compacted.
Q: Can I grow Hydrangea Macrophylla Early Blue in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Hydrangea Macrophylla Early Blue in a container. Just make sure the container has good drainage and use a well-draining soil mix.
Related Plants
– Hydrangea Macrophylla “Nikko Blue”- Hydrangea Macrophylla “Endless Summer”- Hydrangea Macrophylla “Pink Elf”- Hydrangea Macrophylla “Lanarth White”- Hydrangea Paniculata “Limelight”
References
– Dirr, Michael A. “Hydrangea Macrophylla.” Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs, Timber Press, 2019, pp. 402-406.- “Hydrangea Macrophylla.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=245173. Accessed 19 Sept. 2021.- “Hydrangea Macrophylla Early Blue.” Proven Winners, www.provenwinners.com/plants/hydrangea/hydrangea-macrophylla-early-blue. Accessed 19 Sept. 2021.
