Hydrangeaceae - Botanical Family

Dichroa is a genus of 12 species of flowering plants. The flowers are produced in a broad inflorescence similar to that of the related genus Hydrangea.

Dichroa febrifuga it blooms in broad domes of small fertile flowers of deep blue. What immediately distinguishes it are the nearly black stems on all new growth.

In some sources Dichroa febrifuga is indicated as synonim of Dichroa versicolor.

Like Dichroa febrifuga it blooms in broad domes of small fertile flowers of deep blue. What immediately distinguishes it are the nearly black stems on all new growth. This shrub is dense, upright and robust, reaching over six feet. Evergreen and rather tender, it will thrive in most parts of Zones 8-10, but shoud be given a sheltered position. Best planted in sun or shade. It's best to prune to around half size after flowering to maintain vigour and flower performance next summer. Tolerant of dry spells, more so than it's sisters, the hydrangeas. Yellowing of foliage though is a sign that it needs more water, and very likely a little general fertilizer.

Hydrangea macrophylla, commonly known as Bigleaf Hydrangea, is a deciduous flowering shrub native to Japan. It is one of the most widely cultivated hydrangeas, valued for its large, long-lasting flower heads and lush green foliage. Mature plants typically reach 3-6 feet in height and width, forming rounded shrubs that provide color from late spring through summer in gardens and containers.

The species includes two main horticultural groups: mophead hydrangeas, with large rounded flower clusters, and lacecap hydrangeas, whose flattened flower heads consist of tiny fertile flowers surrounded by showy sterile florets. One of the most remarkable characteristics of Hydrangea macrophylla is its ability to produce blue, purple, pink, or occasionally reddish flowers depending on soil chemistry. In acidic soils containing available aluminum, many cultivars develop blue flowers, while neutral to alkaline soils usually produce pink blooms. White-flowered cultivars generally do not change color. Hydrangea macrophylla grows best in moist, fertile, well-drained soil with partial shade, especially in regions with hot summers. Consistent watering is important, as the large leaves lose moisture rapidly during warm weather. Suitable for USDA Zones 6-9, it is an outstanding landscape shrub and one of the most popular flowering plants for gardens, patios, and container culture.

Hydrangea quercifolia is a large shrub, which can grow up to 5 to 10 feet tall, is native to the Southeastern United States. It has oval-shaped, large and toothed leaves, with deep lobes that resemble the leaf of an oak tree. During the bloom season, it features bunches of pink and off-white flowers that sit atop large trusses. Over time, these flowers will take on a brown hue as they age.

Oakleaf Hydrangea is easy to care for and grows best in part shade and with regular watering. It is hardy in USDA Zones 5 to 10, but in colder climates, it is best grown in a container so that it can be brought indoors and kept in a sheltered spot when temperatures drop. Ensure that the potting medium is well-draining and planted in a location that receives morning sunlight.

In the growing season, keep the container watered thoroughly, but be careful not to over-water. Fertilize the plant in early spring before the new growth starts, and then again in mid-summer. Prune the shrub after the flower buds form in mid-spring to keep the shrub an even size, and remove any dead branches.

Overall, Hydrangea quercifolia is an easy-to-care for and rewarding shrub that can bring a bit of beauty to a landscape. With its majestic foliage and delicate flower clusters, it is an all-season eye-catching addition to any garden.

Hydrangeas are an incredibly varied and interesting group of large and small shrubs that have become a staple in many residential gardens throughout the United States. Typically growing 3-10 feet tall at full maturity, this deciduous plant is hardy to USDA Zone 5-9 and, although more sensitive to the cold, even some more northern regions will see hardiness down to the low 30s Fahrenheit for short periods of time.

Native to Eastern Asia, hydrangeas are known for their delightful showy flower heads that can be found in shades of pink, white or off-white, blue, lavender and even a unique purple that appears almost as an unusual color. The flowers can also be two-toned with contrasting eyes, speckled or striped with another color for a particularly standout display.

These unique blooms are counterpointed with striking ornamental foliage that can range from large, glossy green leaves to smaller, leathery foliage found in more dwarf or creeping varieties. When it comes to planting, grow hydrangeas in moist but well-drained and slightly acidic soil, enriched with organic matter and also ensure they receive enough shade or semi-shade throughout the day. For those located in colder regions consider growing hydrangeas in a pot to ensure that they have the right conditions to thrive during the winter months.

Hydrangeas are relatively easy to propagate by stem cuttings taken between April to August and can boast an incredibly generous flowering period throughout the summer. This lovely and hardy shrub has become a sought-after addition to many horticultural displays and is sure to bring a burst of color and life to any outdoor area.

An unusual Japanese perennial with palmate foliage and tubular, yellow blooms. Grow this plant in humus rich soil in partial shade. Requires consistently moist soil; do not let dry out between waterings.

It is a lovely plant for an herbaceous or mixed border, or woodland garden.

It is propagated either by division in winter or early spring, or by raising from seed.

Japanese hydrangea vine is a deciduous, woody-stemmed, climbing vine which is valued for its toothed, heart-shaped, deep green leaves and large, flat-topped, lace cap hydrangea-like clusters of white flowers which bloom in early summer. Foliage turns yellow in fall. Attaches to and grows up flat vertical surfaces such as masonry walls by stem-borne adhesive rootlets. Reddish-brown stems provide some interest in winter. Best grown in rich, medium wet, well-drained soil in part shade to full shade. Prune in late winter to early spring.