Bigleaf Hydrangea Hydrangea macrophylla 'Etoile Violette' (L/d)
ABOUT
'Etoile Violette' is a variety of bigleaf hydrangea, known for its large, lush foliage and showy blooms. The leaves are deep green and have a glossy texture with a slightly serrated edge. The plant is particularly admired for its flower clusters, which appear in impressive round or dome-shaped arrangements. These blossoms can be found in shades of purple, blue, or pink, depending on the soil's acidity. Each individual flower is small and delicate, with four petals that create a neat, almost geometric appearance. The overall effect of these blooms is one of abundant color and fullness, adding a rich and luxurious element to any garden setting where they form as eye-catching focal points during their blooming season.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Hydrangeaceae.
Synonyms
Bigleaf Hydrangea, French Hydrangea, Lacecap Hydrangea, Mophead Hydrangea, Penny Mac, Hortensia.
Common names
Hydrangea macrophylla 'Etoile Violette' (L/d)
ToxicityTo humans
Hydrangea macrophylla, commonly known as hydrangea, is considered to have a low level of toxicity to humans. If any parts of the plant are ingested, it may potentially cause symptoms such as stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea due to the presence of cyanogenic glycosides. These compounds can release cyanide in the body but typically in small quantities that are usually not life-threatening. It's important to be cautious and avoid consuming this plant.
To pets
In regards to pets, hydrangea is also known to be toxic. Ingesting any part of the hydrangea plant can cause similar symptoms as in humans, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy in pets due to the cyanogenic glycosides it contains. Cats and dogs may also experience additional symptoms including depression and could possibly lead to more severe reactions depending on the amount ingested. It is advised to keep this plant out of reach of pets to prevent any potential poisoning.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
3-6 feet (0.91-1.83 meters)
Spread
3-6 feet (0.91-1.83 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5-9
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Hydrangea macrophylla 'Etoile Violette', commonly known as Bigleaf Hydrangea, offers striking bloom clusters that enhance garden aesthetics with their vibrant hues.
- Seasonal Interest: This cultivar provides visual interest during its blooming season with flowers that can change color based on soil pH, ranging from blue to pink to purple.
- Landscape Versatility: Bigleaf Hydrangeas can be planted in a variety of landscape settings including borders, foundation plantings, and as specimen plants.
- Wildlife Attraction: The large flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting biodiversity in the garden.
- Shade Tolerance: Compared to many other flowering shrubs, Bigleaf Hydrangeas can thrive in partial shade, making them suitable for gardens with filtered light.
- Color Variation: Changes in soil acidity can lead to an exciting range of color variations in the blooms, providing a unique gardening experience.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Hydrangeas can be used for textile dye; specifically, the blooms of the 'Etoile Violette' can produce a range of colors from pink to blue, depending on the pH of the water used during the dyeing process.
- The dried flowers of the Hydrangea can be incorporated into potpourri mixes for a fragrant addition to your home decor.
- Pressed Hydrangea flowers can be used in crafting, such as making bookmarks, greeting cards, or phone case decorations for a natural touch.
- As a natural pH indicator, Hydrangea flowers change color based on soil acidity, which can be used in science education to demonstrate chemical reactions.
- The wood of the Hydrangea bush is dense and can be carved into small items such as jewelry beads or buttons.
- The large leaves of the Hydrangea can be used in crafting for leaf printing on fabric or paper, creating beautiful patterns and designs.
- The plush flower heads can be used decoratively in float bowls as centerpiece displays, as they can float on water, giving an elegant look to table settings.
- Blooms from the Hydrangea can be used to make natural confetti for outdoor events, which is biodegradable and adds a colorful touch to celebrations.
- Hydrangea root and stems, once thoroughly dried and treated, can be used to create small, lightweight stakes for supporting other plants in the garden.
- The flowers can be cut and used for practicing flower arrangements, helping amateur florists develop their design and arrangement skills.
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 Emotions: Hydrangeas often represent deep feelings and heartfelt emotions, including gratitude, understanding, and apology, making them a popular choice for expressing sincere emotions.
- Vanity and Boastfulness: In some cultures, hydrangeas symbolize vanity or boastfulness, possibly due to their showy and abundant blossoms.
- Abundance and Prosperity: The lush fullness of the hydrangea's blooms is frequently associated with abundance and prosperity due to the plant's generous display of flowers.
- Grace and Beauty: The aesthetic appeal of this plant, with its violet-hued blooms, often leads to it being used as a symbol of grace and beauty, celebrating the elegance of nature.
- Perseverance: Given its hardy nature and ability to bloom in challenging conditions, hydrangeas can also represent perseverance and the ability to overcome obstacles.
- Fourth Wedding Anniversary: In the language of flowers, hydrangeas are sometimes linked to the fourth wedding anniversary, symbolizing appreciation and lasting affection.
WaterMophead Hydrangeas should be watered deeply, ensuring the soil is moist but not saturated, usually amounting to about 1 gallon of water per week during the growing season. During hot spells or dry periods, watering frequency should be increased to twice per week to maintain moisture levels. Make sure not to waterlog the soil as this can lead to root rot. Container-grown plants will require more frequent watering than in-ground plants, possibly needing water several times a week during peak summer heat.
LightMophead Hydrangeas prefer dappled sunlight or morning sun with afternoon shade to protect their blooms from scorching. The best spot for these hydrangeas would avoid the intense midday sun, which can be too harsh for their flowers and foliage. A location receiving bright but indirect light for most of the day is ideal.
TemperatureMophead Hydrangeas thrive in temperatures between 65°F and 75°F but can tolerate a range from 50°F to 80°F. They should be protected from temperatures below 50°F, as frost can damage the leaves and flowers. The ideal conditions include a consistent temperature avoiding the extremes of winter chills and the peak heat of summer.
PruningMophead Hydrangeas should be pruned after flowering to keep the plant neat and promote vigorous growth. Pruning too often or at the wrong time, such as late winter or early spring, can remove flower buds and reduce blooming. The best time for pruning is immediately after the blooms fade in late summer or early fall.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBigleaf hydrangeas thrive in rich, porous, moist but well-draining soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. A mix of peat moss, compost, and perlite is ideal for retaining moisture while providing adequate drainage and aeration. Adjust the soil pH with sulfur or peat moss to encourage more vibrant flower colors.
RepottingBigleaf hydrangeas should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when they become root-bound. Choose a container only slightly larger than the previous one to prevent overwatering issues and refresh the soil mix to provide nutrients.
Humidity & MistingBigleaf hydrangeas prefer a moderate to high humidity level, around 50% to 60%. They benefit from a humid environment, which can be maintained by grouping plants together, using a humidifier, or placing a water tray near the plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and maintain high humidity.
Outdoor
Choose partial shade and shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
6-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Hydrangea macrophylla 'Etoile Violette', commonly referred to as Bigleaf Hydrangea, begins with seed germination, which occurs in warm, moist soil conditions usually in late winter or early spring. Once germinated, the seedling grows into a young plant with a root system and foliage developing over a few weeks. This is followed by a vegetative growth stage where the plant matures and increases in size, forming lush green leaves and strong stems through the spring and summer months. Flower bud initiation then occurs, usually influenced by the lengthening days of summer. These buds bloom into the characteristic large, vibrant mophead or lacecap flowers, typically in shades of blue, pink, or purple, from early to mid-summer depending on the climate. After the flowering period, which can last several months, the plant enters a period of senescence in late autumn, where the leaves may change color and fall off, and the plant goes dormant over the winter season before restarting its cycle with the return of warmer weather.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating the Hydrangea macrophylla, commonly known as Bigleaf Hydrangea, is through softwood cuttings. This process typically takes place in late spring or early summer when new growth is still tender. Gardeners select a healthy stem that hasn't flowered and cut a 4 to 6-inch section (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) just below a leaf node. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end may be dipped in a rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting is then placed in a well-draining soil mixture, ensuring at least one set of nodes is buried where leaves were removed. The soil is kept moist but not soggy, and the cutting is often covered with a plastic bag or placed in a propagator to maintain high humidity until roots develop, after which it can be gradually acclimatized to less humid conditions and eventually transplanted outdoors.
