Bigleaf Hydrangea Hydrangea macrophylla 'Tivoli' (PBR) (H)
ABOUT
The Hydrangea macrophylla 'Tivoli' is a variety of hydrangea known for its distinct and attractive blooms. The flowers emerge with a deep pink or vivid blue hue, both of which are eye-catching and contribute to the ornamental value of the plant. The exact color of the flowers often depends on the soil's acidity level, with more acidic soils producing blue flowers and alkaline soils resulting in pink flowers. These large, rounded flower heads consist of numerous small florets that cluster tightly together, creating a lush, full appearance. The leaves of this hydrangea are broad, with an ovate shape and a rich, emerald green color that provides a striking backdrop to the vibrant blooms. Their edges are finely toothed, and they contribute a coarse texture, creating a dense, lush foliage display. As the seasons change, the leaves may take on a slight reddish tinge, adding to the plant's overall visual interest. 'Tivoli' hydrangeas are deciduous, meaning that they will shed their leaves annually, often after the leaves change color in the fall. Yet, even without leaves, the remaining flower heads can provide visual interest in the garden throughout the winter. In the spring, new leaves emerge, renewing the plant's robust appearance and setting the stage for another season of spectacular blooms. When in full bloom, this hydrangea presents a showy display that attracts attention in any planting scenario, whether used as a standalone specimen or grouped together for a more dramatic effect in borders or as a hedge. The combination of its stunning flowers and lush green foliage makes the 'Tivoli' hydrangea a favorite among gardeners looking to add a burst of color to their garden palette.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Hydrangeaceae
Synonyms
Bigleaf Hydrangea, French Hydrangea, Lacecap Hydrangea, Mophead Hydrangea, Penny Mac, Hortensia
Common names
Hydrangea macrophylla 'Tivoli' (PBR) (H)
ToxicityTo humans
The common hydrangea, of which Hydrangea macrophylla 'Tivoli' is a cultivar, is known to have parts that are toxic to humans if ingested. The plant contains compounds such as hydragin which is a cyanogenic glycoside. If someone consumes a part of the hydrangea, they might experience symptoms such as stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In some cases, the ingestion can lead to more severe symptoms like dizziness and increased heart rate if consumed in large quantities.
To pets
The common hydrangea is toxic to pets as well. Consuming any part of the plant can lead to symptoms of poisoning, which in pets, particularly dogs, cats, and horses, may include gastrointestinal upset like vomiting and diarrhea. Additionally, ingestion can potentially result in depression and lethargy. In serious cases, the cyanogenic glycosides such as hydragin could release cyanide in the stomach of the pet, leading to cyanide intoxication, which can be more severe and even life-threatening. Owners should keep their pets away from hydrangeas and seek immediate veterinary attention if they suspect their pet has ingested any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
4 feet [1.2 meters]
Spread
4 feet [1.2 meters]
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds vibrant color with its large, rounded flower heads that range from pink to blue, depending on soil pH.
- Versatility in Landscaping: Suitable for a variety of garden styles, including borders, container gardening, and as a focal point in the garden.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers a long flowering period from early summer to late fall, providing visual interest throughout multiple seasons.
- Attracts Pollinators: Appeals to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting local biodiversity.
- Cutting Garden Suitable: Flowers can be cut and used in floral arrangements, maintaining their color and shape well.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, can tolerate periods of dry weather, making it a relatively low-maintenance option for gardens.
- Can be Pruned to Shape: Responsive to pruning, allowing gardeners to maintain the size and shape that best fits their landscape design.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural fabric dye: The blooms of Hydrangea, when boiled, can create a range of colors to dye fabrics, depending on the pH of the water used.
- Hydrangea-pressed souvenirs: The colorful blooms can be pressed and used in creating bookmarks, greeting cards, or framed art.
- Garden design themes: Due to their large, vibrant flowers, Hydrangeas can be used to set a color theme or mood in garden landscapes.
- Photography prop: The full, lush blooms of the Hydrangea make it an excellent subject or background for photographers, particularly in portrait and still life photography.
- Educational tool: The Hydrangea's changing flower color based on soil pH can be used to educate about soil chemistry in gardening classes.
- Decoration in aquariums: After suitable preparation, the dried wood of the Hydrangea bush can be used as a natural decorative element in fish tanks.
- Natural confetti: Dried Hydrangea petals can be used as biodegradable confetti for outdoor celebrations, causing no harm to the environment.
- Hydrangea-themed events: The flowers can inspire event themes, particularly for weddings or garden parties, with their distinct color palette and floral arrangements.
- Culinary decoration: Though not edible, the flowers can be used as temporary decorative pieces on the presentation of dishes, removed before consumption.
- Floral baths: Hydrangea flowers can be added to bath water for a luxurious, scented soak, but should not be applied directly to the skin for extended periods.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe hydrangea is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe hydrangea is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Heartfelt and sincere emotions: The hydrangea is often associated with expressing genuine feelings from the heart, such as gratitude, understanding, and deep emotion.
- Gratitude and thanksgiving: Giving hydrangeas as a gift can symbolize thankfulness and appreciation towards someone, often for their understanding or patience.
- Apology and remorse: In some contexts, hydrangeas are given to express an apology or to ask for forgiveness, as they can symbolize regret or a desire to make amends.
- Frivolity and boastfulness: Historically in some cultures, hydrangeas have been associated with vanity and superficiality, perhaps due to their showy flowers and abundance of blooms.
- Abundance and prosperity: The lush fullness of the hydrangea's blooms can represent abundance and prosperity, making them a favorable symbol of growth and bounty.
- 4th wedding anniversary: Hydrangeas are traditionally given as gifts for the 4th wedding anniversary, symbolizing the growth and development of a couple’s relationship.
WaterThe Bigleaf Hydrangea requires consistent moisture, so water it thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically translates to about once or twice a week. During hotter and drier periods, the frequency may need to increase. Gently pour water at the base of the plant until it begins to run out from the bottom of the pot or saturates the ground for in-ground plants. In terms of volume, aim to provide approximately one to one and a half gallons of water per plant during each watering session, though this may vary slightly depending on the plant's size and environmental conditions. Ensure the plant has proper drainage to avoid waterlogging, which can be detrimental to its health.
LightBigleaf Hydrangeas flourish in locations that receive morning sun and afternoon shade, avoiding the harsh midday sun which can scorch their leaves. The ideal spot would provide bright, indirect light for several hours a day, mimicking the dappled sunlight of their natural understory habitat. A north or east-facing location could offer suitable lighting conditions, protecting them from extensive direct sun exposure during the hottest parts of the day.
TemperatureBigleaf Hydrangeas are best suited to temperatures ranging between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, with a tolerance for temporary dips down to about 50 degrees Fahrenheit at night. They can handle temperatures up to the 80s during summer but prefer cooler conditions. They are generally hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9, and while they can withstand cool weather, frost can damage the buds, so it's recommended to protect them from harsh cold below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPruning Bigleaf Hydrangeas encourages healthy growth and vibrant blooms. It's best to prune them after they flower, cutting back the spent blooms to the first set of new buds. They bloom on both old and new wood, so be careful not to cut back the entire plant, which could reduce flowering for the next season. Typically, you'll prune in late summer or fall, but always immediately after bloom to allow time for new buds to set for the following year.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Bigleaf Hydrangea prefers a rich, porous, moist, well-draining soil with a pH that affects flower color—acidic soil (pH below 6) for blue flowers, neutral to alkaline (pH above 7) for pink.
RepottingBigleaf Hydrangeas like 'Tivoli' should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when the roots outgrow the current pot.
Humidity & MistingBigleaf Hydrangea thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally around 50-60%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Bigleaf Hydrangea in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, sheltered from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
6-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Hydrangea macrophylla 'Tivoli', commonly known as Hortensia or Bigleaf Hydrangea, begins with seed germination, which is often inconsistent and may require stratification for improved success. After germination, the seedling stage follows, where the plant establishes its initial set of true leaves and begins to develop a root system. As the plant enters the vegetative stage, it focuses on growth, producing larger leaves, stronger stems, and a more extensive root system. During the flowering stage, Hortensia produces large, showy flower heads—often blue, pink, or purple depending on the soil pH—that attract pollinators and are a distinctive feature. After pollination and fertilization, the flowers will develop into seed pods, completing the reproductive cycle. Finally, in the senescence stage, the plant will show signs of aging, decline in vigor, and eventually die, although it can live for many years with proper care.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Hydrangea macrophylla 'Tivoli', commonly known as Hydrangea 'Tivoli', is typically propagated through softwood cuttings. This is a popular method because it tends to be reliable and produces genetically identical offspring to the parent plant. To propagate by softwood cuttings, take 4 to 6-inch (10 to 15 cm) cuttings from new growth that is just beginning to harden in late spring or early summer. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed, and the cut end dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. The cutting should then be planted in a well-draining soil mixture, kept moist, and covered with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. Rooting usually occurs within 4 to 6 weeks, after which the new Hydrangea plants can be gradually acclimatized to less humid conditions before transplanting.
