Hydrangea Villosa Group Hydrangea aspera Villosa Group

Water

For the rough-leaved hydrangea (Hydrangea aspera Villosa Group), consistent moisture is important, especially during hot or dry periods. During the growing season, water thoroughly once a week, making sure the soil is moist but not saturated. A good rule of thumb is to provide about one inch of water per week, which is roughly equivalent to 0.5 gallons for a small shrub. Adjust the amount based on rainfall and temperature, ensuring increased watering in extreme heat. In the dormant season, reduce watering, but do not allow the soil to become completely dry.

Light

The rough-leaved hydrangea prefers dappled shade or morning sun with afternoon shade to protect it from the intense heat of the day. This plant thrives in a spot where it receives filtered sunlight, avoiding the harsh midday sun which can scorch its leaves. An ideal location would be under the canopy of tall trees or on the north or east side of a building.

Temperature

The rough-leaved hydrangea is hardy and tolerates a range of temperatures but prefers an environment where the temperature is between 60°F and 80°F for optimal growth. While it can survive minimum winter temperatures down to about 20°F, it should be protected from harsh, cold winds. During the summer, excessive heat above 90°F may stress the plant, so providing some shade can help mitigate the potential damage from the heat.

Pruning

Pruning the rough-leaved hydrangea in late winter or early spring encourages healthy growth and enhances blooming. Remove any dead or crossing branches to improve air circulation and cut back about a third of the oldest stems to aid in rejuvenation. Pruning should ideally occur before new growth starts, as this species blooms on old wood, and pruning too late can remove the current year's flowers.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Rough-leaved Hydrangeas require a soil mix that is rich in organic matter, well-draining yet moisture-retentive. A combination of loamy garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or coarse sand in equal parts can be ideal. The pH should be mildly acidic, around 5.5 to 6.5, to encourage vibrant foliage and bloom colors.

Repotting

Rough-leaved Hydrangeas typically need repotting every 2-3 years to ensure they have enough room to grow and to refresh the soil. However, mature plants can be repotted less frequently, as long as they are not showing signs of being pot-bound or nutrient deficiencies.

Humidity & Misting

Rough-leaved Hydrangeas thrive in environments with moderate to high humidity. Aim for a humidity level around 50-60% for optimal growth. These plants appreciate a moist atmosphere but can tolerate slightly lower humidity levels when other conditions are favorable.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in indirect light, ensure high humidity, maintain moist soil.

• Outdoor

  Partial shade, protect from afternoon sun, enrich soil, mulch well.

• Hardiness zone

  7-9 USDA

Life cycle

Hydrangea aspera, commonly known as rough hydrangea, begins its life as a seed, which germinates in moist, well-draining soil under partial to full shade. Sprouting occurs in early spring, growing into a seedling with leaves and a root system establishing quickly. As a juvenile, the hydrangea's stems and foliage develop over the spring and summer, with the plant maturing over several years to its full size, with a shrubby form characterized by hairy leaves and stems. Once mature, typically within 2-4 years, the hydrangea produces large, flat-topped flower clusters in the summer, with blooms consisting of both showy sterile flowers and smaller fertile flowers. After pollination, the plant sets seed in the fall, which are dispersed nearby, perpetuating the cycle. The plant enters dormancy during winter, shedding leaves where the climate is colder and resting before beginning the next year's growth cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Summer to early fall

• The Hydrangea aspera Villosa Group, commonly known as rough-leaved hydrangea, can be propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings during the late summer. To do so, one must select a healthy stem that has new growth but has begun to firm up. Cut a 4 to 6 inch (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) section from the stem just below a leaf node, and remove the lower leaves. The cutting should then be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development and planted in a well-draining potting mix. It’s important to maintain consistent moisture and provide indirect light until roots have established, after which the new hydrangea plant can be transplanted outdoors.