Hydrangea Macrophylla Nikko Blue
Contents
Description
Hydrangea Macrophylla Nikko Blue, also known as Bigleaf Hydrangea, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Hydrangeaceae family. It is native to Japan and Korea and is popular for its large, showy flowers that bloom in shades of blue, pink, and purple.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Hydrangeaceae |
| Genus | Hydrangea |
Appearance
Hydrangea Macrophylla Nikko Blue can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide. It has large, glossy, dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and serrated. The flowers are produced in large, rounded clusters, known as corymbs, that can reach up to 8 inches in diameter. The flowers are typically blue, but can also be pink or purple depending on the soil pH. The color of the flowers can be changed by altering the soil pH. Acidic soil produces blue flowers while alkaline soil produces pink flowers.
Care Guide
Hydrangea Macrophylla Nikko Blue requires rich, moist soil that is well-draining. It prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. It is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 6 to 9. Here are some tips on how to care for Hydrangea Macrophylla Nikko Blue:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week during the growing season.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acidic (pH 5.5 to 6.5).
- Sunlight: Plant in partial shade or filtered sunlight. Full sun can cause the leaves to wilt in hot weather.
- Hardiness Zones: Hydrangea Macrophylla Nikko Blue is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hydrangea Macrophylla Nikko Blue is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: Small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant. Use insecticidal soap to control.
- Spider Mites: Tiny pests that feed on the underside of leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control.
- Powdery Mildew: A fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating on the leaves. Use fungicides to control.
Habitat
Hydrangea Macrophylla Nikko Blue is native to Japan and Korea and grows in wooded areas and along streambanks. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How do I change the color of the flowers?
A: The color of the flowers can be changed by altering the soil pH. Acidic soil produces blue flowers while alkaline soil produces pink flowers.
Q: How often should I fertilize?
A: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can I grow Hydrangea Macrophylla Nikko Blue in full sun?
A: It is best to plant in partial shade or filtered sunlight. Full sun can cause the leaves to wilt in hot weather.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Hydrangea Macrophylla Nikko Blue?
A: Hydrangea Macrophylla Nikko Blue is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 6 to 9.
Related Plants
- Hydrangea serrata
- Hydrangea paniculata
- Hydrangea arborescens
References
- “Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Nikko Blue’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277533. Accessed 20 Oct. 2021.
- “Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Nikko Blue’.” NC State Extension, 30 Nov. 2018, content.ces.ncsu.edu/hydrangea-macrophylla-nikko-blue. Accessed 20 Oct. 2021.
- “Bigleaf Hydrangea.” The Spruce, 6 Apr. 2021, www.thespruce.com/bigleaf-hydrangea-plant-profile-5077241. Accessed 20 Oct. 2021.
