Hydrangea Hydrangea macrophylla Magical Rhapsody = 'Hortmarhso' (PBR) (Magical Series) (H)
ABOUT
The Hydrangea macrophylla Magical Rhapsody, part of the Magical Series and sometimes referred to simply as the Hydrangea, is characterized by its lush, green foliage and large, rounded clusters of flowers. These flower heads, known for their showy appearance, undergo a transformation in color throughout the blooming period. The flowers start off in a creamy white tone and gradually change to a rich pink as they mature. The leaves of this Hydrangea are broad with a slightly toothed edge, and they boast a rich green hue that provides a beautiful backdrop to the enchanting flowers. The plant has a bushy habit, with stems that arc gracefully under the weight of the flowers. The overall impression is one of a dense, rounded shrub that is covered in these striking blooms during the flowering season. The Magical Rhapsody is particularly noted for the longevity of its flowers as well as their ability to change color as they age, making this plant a dynamic addition to any garden. Its blossoms are often favored for both fresh and dried floral arrangements due to their robust nature and lasting appeal.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Hydrangeaceae
Synonyms
Bigleaf Hydrangea, French Hydrangea, Lacecap Hydrangea, Mophead Hydrangea, Hortensia
Common names
Hydrangea macrophylla Hortmarhso.
ToxicityTo humans
Hydrangea, also known as Hydrangea macrophylla Magical Rhapsody, can be toxic when consumed. This toxicity comes from the presence of cyanogenic glycosides found within the plant's leaves and flower buds. If ingested, these compounds can release cyanide in the body. Symptoms of poisoning can include stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more serious symptoms such as difficulty breathing, dizziness, a rapid heartbeat, and convulsions. It is important to seek medical attention immediately if hydrangea poisoning is suspected.
To pets
Hydrangea, also known as Hydrangea macrophylla Magical Rhapsody, is toxic to pets if ingested. The plant contains cyanogenic glycosides, mainly in its leaves and flower buds. When chewed or swallowed, these substances can break down into cyanide, which is harmful to pets. Symptoms of poisoning in pets can include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, abdominal pain, and depression. In severe cases, ingesting hydrangea can lead to increased heart rate, labored breathing, seizures, and even coma. If you suspect your pet has consumed any part of a hydrangea plant, it is crucial to contact a veterinarian immediately.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Varies
Flower color
Mixed
Height
3-5 feet (0.91-1.52 meters)
Spread
3-5 feet (0.91-1.52 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5-9
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Features showy, large, and colorful flowers that can add visual interest to gardens and landscapes.
- Long Blooming Period: Offers an extended flowering season, often from early summer to late fall, providing color for a longer time.
- Variety of Colors: Flowers can shift colors based on soil pH, ranging from pink in alkaline soils to blue in more acidic soils.
- Attracts Pollinators: Serves as a food source for bees and butterflies, thereby supporting local ecosystems and biodiversity.
- Hardy and Adaptable: Tolerant of various climates and conditions, making it suitable for many garden settings.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, saving time and effort in garden upkeep.
- Durable Cut Flowers: The blooms are long-lasting when cut and are excellent for use in floral arrangements.
- Seasonal Interest: Deciduous nature provides seasonal changes in landscapes, with lush green foliage in summer and potentially colorful leaves in fall.
- Rebloom Capability: Some cultivars of Hydrangea macrophylla can bloom on both old and new wood, providing another round of flowers later in the season.
- Compact Size: As part of the Magical Series, these hydrangeas are bred to have a more compact growth habit, making them suitable for smaller gardens and containers.
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 as a natural dye for fabric and paper, yielding colors ranging from pale green to deep blue, depending on the pH level of the water used during dyeing.
- Pressed hydrangea flowers make beautiful and delicate additions to handmade greeting cards, bookmarks, or other paper crafts.
- In floristry, hydrangea blooms are utilized in dried floral arrangements due to their ability to retain color and shape for an extended period.
- Because of their full, round shape, hydrangea blooms can be used as natural sponges for gentle cleaning or bathing once they are fully dried out.
- The wood of mature hydrangea shrubs is quite hard and can be carved into small objects or beads, incorporating the beauty of the plant in a different form.
- During winter, the sturdy, dried flower heads of hydrangeas can provide texture and interest in the garden by capturing frost or snow.
- Hydrangea leaves can serve as a natural mulch, helping to regulate soil temperature and moisture levels when decomposed in garden beds.
- The large leaves of hydrangeas can be used as a natural wrapping for small gifts or as part of a biodegradable flower bouquet wrap.
- Artists may use the varied colors of hydrangea petals as inspiration or even as a physical component in mixed media art pieces.
- Gardeners can use the color change of hydrangea blooms as an indicator of soil pH, assisting in the management of garden soil conditions.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiHydrangeas can be used in Feng Shui for their blooming characteristics which symbolize gratitude, grace, and abundance. They are best placed in areas that need an energetic lift or where peaceful energy is desired, such as the east side of a home to promote family harmony or in a personal 'wealth corner' to attract prosperity.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe hydrangea is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Heartfelt Emotions: Hydrangeas often symbolize deep feelings that are heartfelt and genuine. This can be due to the plant's lush and abundant flower heads.
- Gratitude: The fullness of the hydrangea's blooms can represent gratitude, making it a perfect gift to express appreciation.
- Apology: In some cultures, hydrangeas can signify an apology or a desire for reconciliation.
- Understanding: The hydrangea is sometimes given to represent comprehension or a deep level of understanding between individuals.
- Vanity: Some interpretations of the hydrangea's symbolism regard its beautiful and showy flowers as a symbol of vanity and boastfulness.
- Frigidity and Heartlessness: Due to the plant’s old symbolic ties in Japan where it was believed to represent dispassion and detachment, the hydrangea can sometimes symbolize coldness of emotions.
- Abundance: The voluminous quality of the hydrangea flower heads can also symbolize abundance or prosperity.
- Femininity: With their delicate flowers and pastel colors, hydrangeas are often associated with femininity and softness.
WaterThe Hydrangea macrophylla, commonly known as Bigleaf Hydrangea, prefers consistently moist soil, so regular watering is important, especially during dry spells. It should be watered deeply once a week, with about one to one and a half gallons of water per plant, ensuring that the soil is thoroughly soaked. During hot or windy weather, it may need additional water to prevent wilting. It's crucial to avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf spot and other fungal diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant. In winter, reduce watering since the plant requires less moisture during dormancy.
LightBigleaf Hydrangeas thrive best in dappled sunlight or partial shade, as too much direct sun can scorch their leaves. A spot that receives morning sunlight and afternoon shade is ideal, ensuring enough light for optimal growth and bloom without the stress of intense midday sun. Avoid deep shade, as this can result in reduced flowering.
TemperatureBigleaf Hydrangeas prefer a temperature range between 65°F and 75°F for optimal growth. They can tolerate minimum temperatures down to around 20°F but can be damaged by late spring frosts after they have begun to leaf out. During the summer months, they can handle temperatures up to about 80°F, but high heat can stress the plant.
PruningPrune Bigleaf Hydrangeas after they have bloomed to remove spent flowers and encourage new growth, as they bloom on old wood. Prune in late summer or early fall, but not too late in the season to avoid cutting off next year's buds. Light pruning to shape the plant and thin out any crowded branches can be beneficial for plant health and aesthetics.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Hydrangea, commonly known as Bigleaf Hydrangea, should be rich, moist, and well-drained with an organic component, such as compost or peat moss, incorporated to retain moisture. An ideal soil pH for this plant is around 5.5 to 6.5, which can influence flower color, turning blooms blue in more acidic conditions or pink in alkaline soils.
RepottingBigleaf Hydrangeas should be repotted every 2-3 years or when they outgrow their current container. They prefer a spacious pot that allows for root development, ensuring better growth and bloom.
Humidity & MistingBigleaf Hydrangeas thrive in environments with high humidity. Aim to maintain a humidity level of around 60% to keep these hydrangeas happy.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and maintain moist soil.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, protect from strong winds and afternoon sun.
Hardiness zone
6-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Hydrangea macrophylla Magical Rhapsody begins with seed germination, which is relatively uncommon in cultivated settings as these plants are typically propagated by cuttings. Once established, the hydrangea enters a vegetative growth phase where it develops its characteristic broad green leaves and woody stems. As it matures, usually in mid to late spring, it enters the flowering stage, producing large, showy flower heads that can be blue, pink, or purple, depending on soil pH, with this stage lasting throughout the summer. After blooming, in autumn, the flowers may fade to a vintage hue and the plant begins to enter dormancy, reducing growth as temperatures cool. Throughout winter, the hydrangea remains dormant, conserving energy and withstanding frosts with its hardy stems. In spring, the cycle resumes as the plant breaks dormancy, initiating new leaf growth and preparing for the next flowering cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Hydrangea macrophylla, commonly known as bigleaf hydrangea, is through softwood cuttings. This technique is typically performed in late spring or early summer, coinciding with the plant's active growth phase when new stems are still tender and flexible. To propagate, a gardener takes a 4 to 6-inch (about 10 to 15 cm) cutting from a healthy, non-flowering stem with at least three sets of leaves. The lower leaves are removed to expose the nodes, and the cutting is dipped into rooting hormone powder to facilitate root development. The prepared cutting is then inserted into a moistened mixture of half peat and half perlite or sand to provide a balance of moisture retention and drainage. The container with the cutting should be placed in indirect light and kept at a consistent temperature, often between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (about 18 to 24 degrees Celsius), while ensuring that the growing medium remains moist but not waterlogged. Roots typically form within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions before being transplanted into the garden.
