Contents
Description
Hydrangea Macrophylla Parzifal, commonly known as the mophead hydrangea, is a deciduous shrub that is native to Japan, Korea, and China. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its large, showy flowers that bloom in the summer. The flowers can range in color from pink to blue depending on the acidity of the soil, with more acidic soils producing blue flowers and more alkaline soils producing pink flowers. The shrub can grow up to 6 feet tall and 8 feet wide, and its leaves are dark green and glossy.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Hydrangeaceae |
| Genus | Hydrangea |
Appearance
The Hydrangea Macrophylla Parzifal has large, round flowerheads that can measure up to 8 inches across. The flowers are composed of many smaller florets that are tightly clustered together. The leaves are oval-shaped and can measure up to 8 inches long. The shrub can grow up to 6 feet tall and 8 feet wide, and its bark is brown and slightly peeling.
Care Guide
Hydrangea Macrophylla Parzifal requires regular watering and fertilization to thrive. It prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It also requires partial shade to full sun exposure, and it is hardy in USDA zones 5-9. In order to maintain the acidity of the soil, it is recommended to add aluminum sulfate to the soil if you wish to have blue flowers or lime if you prefer pink flowers. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, and deadheading should be done throughout the summer to promote more blooms.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hydrangea Macrophylla Parzifal is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. In order to prevent these issues, it is important to maintain good plant hygiene by removing any dead or diseased plant material and keeping the soil well-drained. In severe cases, insecticides or fungicides may be necessary.
Habitat
Hydrangea Macrophylla Parzifal is native to the temperate regions of Japan, Korea, and China. It grows in forests, along streams, and in other areas with moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Hydrangea Macrophylla Parzifal?
A: Hydrangea Macrophylla Parzifal requires regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. It should be watered deeply once a week or more often if the soil is very dry.
Q: How do I prune my Hydrangea Macrophylla Parzifal?
A: Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or diseased branches, and shape the plant as desired.
Q: How can I change the color of my Hydrangea Macrophylla Parzifal’s flowers?
A: The color of the flowers can be changed by adjusting the acidity of the soil. For blue flowers, add aluminum sulfate to the soil. For pink flowers, add lime.
Q: How do I prevent powdery mildew on my Hydrangea Macrophylla Parzifal?
A: Powdery mildew can be prevented by maintaining good plant hygiene and keeping the soil well-drained. In severe cases, fungicides may be necessary.
Related Plants
- Hydrangea arborescens
- Hydrangea anomala
- Hydrangea paniculata
- Hydrangea quercifolia
References
- “Hydrangea Macrophylla.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277913&isprofile=0&pt=2.
- “Hydrangea Macrophylla Parzifal.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/142541/Hydrangea-macrophylla-Parzifal/Details.
- “Hydrangea Macrophylla Parzifal.” The Spruce. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/hydrangea-macrophylla-parzifal-5078566.
