Hydrangea macrophylla

Hydrangea macrophylla is a species of Hydrangea native to Japan. Common names include Bigleaf Hydrangea, French Hydrangea, Lacecap Hydrangea, Mophead Hydrangea, Penny Mac and Hortensia. It is widely cultivated in many parts of the world in many climates.
This deciduous shrub usually grows up to 1-3 m tall. The leaves are opposite, simple ovoid-acute, 7-20 cm long, with a coarsely toothed margin. Its flowers can be white, or range from blue to purple to pink depending on soil pH; in more acidic soils the flowers will be blue, whereas alkaline soils yield a pinkish bloom. White flowered varieties do not change colour regardless of the soil pH.
Hydrangea macrophylla has been cultivated for many years as an ornamental plant in Japan, and in the last 150 years, also extensively in other areas of the world with a temperate climate. Over 600 cultivars have been selected for garden use, varying in flower colour. Gardeners can often control the flower colour by adding lime or aluminium sulfate to alter the acidity level around the plant. These flowers can also be rainbow colored when Na2CO3 is carefully poured into the soil.

Hydrangeas like loose, rich, moist but well drained soil in partial shade to sun. Hardiness: USDA Zones 6-10. Propagation is by cuttings.
In climates where hydrangea flowers, place in a mixed shrub border or at the back of a flower bed. Its rich foliage and large size make it a wonderful background for white or light colored flowers, even tall growing perennials and annuals. In warm climates H. macrophylla is good for adding a splash of springtime color to shady areas and woodland gardens. Minimal pruning is recommended for most prolific flowering. Flowers are easily air dried and are long lasting.