PlotPal

Hydrangea

Hydrangea is listed botanically as Hydrangea macrophylla. It may also be listed as french hydrangea, lacecap hydrangea, Hortensia. Bigleaf hydrangea is a deciduous shrub grown for large mophead or lacecap flower clusters. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and protection from the hottest afternoon sun in warmer sites. Flower color in many cultivars is influenced by soil chemistry, but pruning timing matters just as much for good bloom. PlotPal's canonical care record lists partial shade and higher water needs. The current taxonomy reference places it in the genus Hydrangea and in the family Hydrangeaceae. Its source-backed growth habit is listed as multiple stem. PlotPal currently carries Hydrangea as an outdoor growing and shrub reference. Growing note: Keep soil evenly moist and mulch to protect shallow roots. Many bigleaf hydrangeas bloom on old wood, so avoid hard pruning in late winter unless you know the cultivar flowers on new growth too. Remove dead wood after buds begin to swell so live stems are easier to identify. Propagation or sowing note: Usually planted as nursery shrubs or propagated from cuttings Plant-health prevention note: Water at the soil line, space shrubs for airflow, and remove heavily spotted fallen leaves where disease recurs. Pest-prevention note: Inspect tender shoots and leaf undersides and maintain even moisture to reduce stress; treat only when pest populations are causing meaningful damage. Common pests in the reference include Aphids, Spider mites, Scale insects. Common plant-health issues in the reference include Powdery mildew, Cercospora leaf spot, Botrytis blight. Use this guide as practical growing context, then adjust decisions to the actual weather, soil, container or bed, variety, and conditions in your garden.