Amazing Colour Hydrangea Macrophylla Flower

Hydrangea macrophylla: The Iconic Garden Beauty
Hydrangea macrophylla, also known as bigleaf hydrangea, is one of the most beloved and iconic flowering shrubs in gardens around the world. Native to Japan, this deciduous shrub is renowned for its stunning, globe-like or flat flower clusters, rich foliage, and remarkable ability to change color depending on soil pH. Whether used in formal landscapes, cottage gardens, or as standalone specimens, Hydrangea macrophylla brings both drama and elegance to outdoor spaces.
Botanical Profile
Scientific Name: Hydrangea macrophylla
Family: Hydrangeaceae
Common Names: Bigleaf hydrangea, French hydrangea, mophead hydrangea, lacecap hydrangea
Origin: Native to coastal Japan
Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
Mature Size: 3 to 6 feet tall and wide
Types of Inflorescence
Hydrangea macrophylla is primarily divided into two major flower types:
Mophead Hydrangeas:These bear large, rounded flower heads resembling pompoms or “mops.”
The flower heads are made up of mostly sterile flowers with large, colorful sepals.
Lacecap Hydrangeas:These have flat-topped flower heads with a central cluster of small, fertile flowers surrounded by larger, showy sterile flowers.
Lacecaps are subtler and more delicate in appearance compared to mopheads.
Color-Changing Magic
One of the most fascinating features of Hydrangea macrophylla is its ability to change flower color depending on the soil’s pH level:
Acidic Soil: Produces blue flowers due to increased availability of aluminum ions.
Neutral to Alkaline Soil: Produces pink or red flowers.