Bigleaf Hydrangea Hydrangea macrophylla 'Selina' (Dutch Ladies Series) (L)
ABOUT
Hydrangea 'Selina', from the Dutch Ladies Series, is a flowering shrub known for its striking and voluminous blooms. The plant flaunts large, rounded flower heads that can vary in color from a deep pink to a rich blue, often depending on the acidity of the soil. The flowers emerge with a greenish hue before maturing to their full color, and as they age, they may take on an attractive antique look. These blooms stand out against the hydrangea's lush foliage, which consists of ovate, serrated leaves that are deep green in color, creating a contrasting backdrop that highlights the vibrant flowers. The leaves are usually glossy and have a leathery texture, which adds to the plant's visual appeal. Hydrangea 'Selina' has a bushy and rounded habit, with multiple stems branching out to create a full and dense appearance. This density makes it a favorite for creating visual interest in gardens, either as a focal point or as part of a mixed border. It's also popular for its long-lasting flowers, which can provide color from late spring to early fall, depending on the climate. As the seasons change, the plant's flowers may also change in color, offering a dynamic display throughout its blooming period. Additionally, the dried flower heads can persist through the winter, providing textural interest even when the garden has succumbed to cold weather. Though the specific size of the plant is not to be mentioned, Hydrangea 'Selina' is considered a substantial presence in the garden, often used in landscaping for its ornamental qualities and the lush visual volume it provides. It does well in a variety of soil types, provided they are well-draining, and it prefers a spot with partial shade to full sun, making it versatile and relatively easy to care for in a range of garden settings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Hydrangeaceae
Synonyms
Selina Hydrangea, Selina Bigleaf Hydrangea, Selina Hortensia
Common names
Hydrangea macrophylla 'Selina'.
ToxicityTo humans
The common name of Hydrangea macrophylla 'Selina' is hydrangea. Hydrangeas are considered to have a low level of toxicity if ingested by humans. The plant contains compounds like hydrangin that can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset if consumed in large quantities. Symptoms of hydrangea poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Although poisoning is rare, children and pets are more susceptible to the effects due to their smaller size, and ingesting any part of this plant can potentially be harmful.
To pets
The common name of Hydrangea macrophylla 'Selina' is hydrangea. Hydrangeas are toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. The toxicity is due to the presence of cyanogenic glycosides found in the plant’s leaves and flower buds. When ingested, these compounds can release cyanide in the pet's body leading to poisoning. Symptoms of hydrangea poisoning in pets can include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, abdominal pain, and in some severe cases, cyanide intoxication can result in more serious symptoms such as breathing difficulties, increased heart rate, seizures, or even coma. Pet owners should seek immediate veterinary care if they suspect their pet has ingested hydrangea.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)
Spread
4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5-9
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Hydrangea macrophylla 'Selina' adds visual interest to gardens with its large, vibrant blooms that range from pink to blue depending on soil pH.
- Landscape Versatility: It can be used in a variety of garden settings, including borders, beds, and as a specimen plant.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers a long flowering season from early summer to late fall, providing extended color and attractiveness.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees and butterflies, supporting the local ecosystem.
- Durability: This variety of hydrangea is known for being hardy and can tolerate a range of climates and harsh conditions once established.
- Pruning and Shaping: Responds well to pruning, allowing gardeners to control size and promote denser growth.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Hydrangea macrophylla 'Selina' can be used as a natural fabric dye. The flowers create beautiful shades of blue or pink depending on the pH of the soil they are grown in.
- These hydrangeas can be used in pressed flower art due to their vibrant colors and relative ease of pressing.
- The dried flower heads of Hydrangea 'Selina' can be used for potpourri. They retain their shape and color well, providing visual appeal and texture.
- Hydrangea 'Selina' is a favored choice for creating living fences or privacy screens in gardens due to its dense foliage.
- The wood of mature Hydrangea 'Selina' shrubs can be used for small woodworking projects or as garden stakes.
- Florists often use the dried flower heads of Hydrangea 'Selina' in wreaths and dried floral arrangements due to their lasting color and full shape.
- Hydrangea 'Selina' can be used in water features as they can be grown near ponds or streams, adding a pop of color and interest to aquatic landscaping.
- The flowers of Hydrangea 'Selina' can be used in crafting handmade paper, giving the paper a unique texture and flecks of color.
- In educational settings, Hydrangea 'Selina' can be used to teach students about soil pH and how it affects flower coloration.
- Garden photographers and artists often use Hydrangea 'Selina' as a subject due to its strikingly large flower heads and vivid coloring.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Hydrangea is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Hydrangea is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Gratitude: Hydrangeas, including the 'Selina' variety, are often given as a token of thanks or appreciation due to their lush, abundant flower heads.
- Heartfelt Emotions: The opulent blooms represent the fullness of emotion and can convey genuine, heartfelt sentiment.
- Understanding: It is sometimes attributed the meaning of understanding, possibly because of its dense, multi-flowered appearance that can symbolize a complexity of feelings.
- Vanity: In certain cultures, hydrangeas may symbolize vanity or boastfulness, perhaps due to the showy nature of their large, colorful blossoms.
- Fourth Wedding Anniversary: Hydrangeas are traditional gifts for the fourth wedding anniversary, representing appreciation and enduring love.
- Abundance: The voluminous quality of the hydrangea's flowers is often associated with abundance and prosperity.
WaterBigleaf hydrangeas like 'Selina' should be watered deeply, allowing the water to soak into the soil, to encourage root growth. In general, 1 inch of water per week, either from rainfall or manual watering, is adequate. This equates to about 0.623 gallons per square foot per week. However, during hot or dry weather, they may need additional water, perhaps twice a week. It is important to avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant.
LightBigleaf hydrangeas like 'Selina' thrive in partial shade, preferably with morning sun and afternoon shade. They can tolerate full sun in cooler climates if they are kept moist, but in hotter areas, they require protection from the harsh afternoon sun. The ideal spot is one that receives filtered light or dappled shade throughout the day, ensuring bright but indirect sunlight.
TemperatureBigleaf hydrangeas like 'Selina' are hardy and do well in a range of temperatures, but they prefer a consistent range between 60°F and 75°F. They can tolerate minimum winter temperatures down to around 30°F but may suffer damage or die back if temperatures drop below this for prolonged periods. During summer, high temperatures over 85°F may stress the plant, especially if not adequately watered.
PruningFor bigleaf hydrangeas like 'Selina', pruning is necessary to remove dead wood and encourage flowering. Prune in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins, since 'Selina' flowers on old wood. Cut back just above the first pair of healthy buds. Annually remove about a third of the oldest stems to rejuvenate the plant and improve air circulation.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBigleaf hydrangeas like 'Selina' prefer a rich, porous, moist soil with good drainage. The ideal soil pH for this hydrangea is between 5.2 and 5.5 to maintain its vibrant bloom color, as it can influence flower color—more acidic soils can lead to blue flowers, while slightly more alkaline soils often result in pinkish hues. A mixture of garden soil, peat moss, and perlite in equal parts can create a conducive environment for healthy growth.
RepottingBigleaf hydrangeas generally need repotting every 2 to 3 years to ensure they are not becoming root-bound. However, if you notice stunted growth or diminished flowering, it may be a sign that the 'Selina' hydrangea needs to be repotted sooner.
Humidity & MistingBigleaf hydrangeas thrive in environments with high humidity. 'Selina' hydrangeas benefit most from a humidity level of around 60% to foster lush foliage and vibrant blooms. Regular misting can help maintain this humidity if indoor air is dry.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep in brightly lit spot, ensure high humidity and moist soil.
Outdoor
Plant in morning sun, shield from hot PM sun, water regularly.
Hardiness zone
6-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Hydrangea macrophylla 'Selina', commonly known as hydrangea, begins with germination, which occurs when the plant’s seeds are sown in well-draining soil and provided with sufficient moisture and warmth. The seedling stage follows, characterized by the emergence of the first leaves and roots as the plant begins photosynthesis and establishes itself. As it matures into the vegetative stage, the hydrangea develops a bushy structure with multiple leaves, stems, and may produce root suckers that contribute to its spread. The flowering stage is marked by the development of large, colorful blooms in shades ranging from pink to blue, depending on soil pH, which can attract pollinators and give rise to seed production when fertilized. After blooming, the plant enters a period of senescence in autumn where it loses leaves and enters dormancy, conserving energy through the colder months. The hydrangea completes its life cycle through annual periodic rebirth, resuming growth in the spring and continuing through this cycle for many years, with some hydrangeas living decades with proper care and favorable conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Hydrangea macrophylla 'Selina', commonly known as Bigleaf Hydrangea, is through softwood cuttings. This method typically takes place in late spring or early summer when the plant's new growth is still tender and green, yet mature enough to withstand being cut and replanted. Gardeners should select healthy stems without flower buds and make a cut about 4 to 6 inches long. After removing the lower leaves, the cut end of the stem is often dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The prepared cutting is then inserted into a moist soil mix, ensuring that at least one leaf node is below the surface. The cutting should be kept in a warm, humid environment with indirect light until roots have developed, which can take several weeks.
