25 Fun and Interesting Facts About Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas can be a divisive flower; many people either adore them or dislike them entirely. Despite this, there’s no denying that they’re some of the most iconic blooms of all. Hydrangeas have become popular across the globe and can be found growing on nearly every continent. Let’s dive into 25 fun and interesting facts about hydrangeas!

1. There Are Roughly 75 Different Species of Hydrangeas

According to North Dakota State University, “The Hydrangea (or Hortensia) genus consists of about 70-75 species and over 600 named cultivars.”

2. Hydrangeas Come In a Variety of Different Colors

Believe it or not, the pH level of the soil that hydrangeas are planted in will play a huge role in determining their color.

3. Many Hydrangeas Are Native to Asia

Some Asian hydrangea varieties include ajisai, Chinese hydrangea, and climbing hydrangeas.

4. The Word Hydrangea Has Greek Origins

The word “hydrangea” is a combination of the Greek word “hydros,” meaning water, and the Greek word “angos,” meaning vessel. These words combine to create something similar to “water vessel,” nodding to this plant’s voracious appetite for water.

5. Hydrangeas Are Cape Cod’s Signature Flower

Even though hydrangeas aren’t native to Cape Cod, they’ve exploded in popularity here. So much so that this flower is an absolute symbol of this area.

6. Hydrangeas Are Toxic

Despite their beauty, this flower is dangerous. If ingested by humans or animals, it can be potentially deadly as it contains trace amounts of cyanide.

7. Hydrangeas Have a Long Blooming Season

Hydrangeas bloom for a very long time in many regions in the United States, typically starting in March and ending in October. Depending on where you live, this will vary slightly.

8. Hydrangeas Can Have Many Different Meanings

While some cultures see these flowers as a symbol of arrogance, others interpret hydrangeas as embodying positive qualities, such as new beginnings, innocence, and gratitude.

9. Hydrangeas Don’t Really Have Petals

Although it might be surprising, those delicate flower petals aren’t actually petals at all. According to the Norfolk Botanical Garden, “The flowers do not have petals, but the sterile flowers have developed very showy sepals (part of the outer portion of a flower known as the calyx).”

10. Hydrangeas Have Their Own Holiday

Individuals who are passionate about this flower will be happy to learn that it has its own dedicated holiday. National Hydrangea Day is celebrated on January 5th each year.

11. Hydrangea Enthusiasts Have Their Own Club

Are you a hydrangea fanatic? If so, you’re in luck because the American Hydrangea Society is accepting new members!

12. Hydrangeas Are the Perfect Flower for Individuals With Allergies

Unlike other flowers, the pollen that hydrangeas produce is sticky and not easily carried by the wind. Because of this, many people with allergies report that this flower doesn’t trigger them as much as others.

13. Hydrangeas Are Hardy

If you’re not someone who has a green thumb, hydrangeas just might be the flower for you. These plants are hardy to a variety of weather and temperature conditions.

14. Some Hydrangeas Can Grow To Be Over 50 Feet Tall

Although some hydrangeas are small, other species, such as the climbing hydrangea, can grow to incredible heights.

15. French Hydrangeas Are the Most Popular Variety

Although many different hydrangeas are easy to care for and beautiful, the French hydrangea takes the title of the most popular choice.

16. The Color of a Hydrangea Can Change Its Meaning

Some people believe that pink hydrangeas symbolize romantic love, while blue hydrangeas symbolize sorrow or forgiveness. White hydrangeas usually carry the meaning of innocence and purity.

17. A Hydrangea Is the State Wildflower of Alabama

In 1999, the oak leaf hydrangea was declared the state wildflower of Alabama.

18. Hydrangeas Are Perennials

If gardeners take care of their hydrangeas, they will return each year as they are perennials.

19. Hydrangeas Are a Popular Anniversary Gift

Some people believe that hydrangeas should be gifted on a couple’s fourth wedding anniversary in order to convey your appreciation for your partner.

20. Hydrangeas Require a Lot of Watering

Although this hardy flower is somewhat low maintenance, watering it properly is key. This will ensure that your plant blooms consistently.

21. Hydrangeas Attract a Variety of Insects

Although this plant might be deadly to animals and humans, it attracts a variety of insects such as butterflies, moths, and bees.

22. Many People Plant Hydrangeas for Privacy

Since these shrubs can grow thick and dense, hydrangeas can serve as a beautiful privacy hedge.

23. Hydrangeas Can Live Up to 50 Years

If gardeners consistently water and properly care for their hydrangeas, they can live for up to half a century!

24. White Hydrangeas Don’t Change Color

Unlike colored hydrangeas, white hydrangeas don’t change color based on the pH level of the soil that they’re planted in.

25. Hydrangeas Are Ancient

Hydrangeas are one of the most ancient flowers of all, and some hydrangea fossils have been discovered that date back to roughly 50 million years ago.

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