Hydrangeas

Most are familiar with the beauty of hydrangeas, having seen them in ornate arrangements or even growing in a neighbour’s garden. Although they were originally found in the mountains of Japan, these flowers bloom worldwide. There are almost a hundred cultivars, which vary from big round ‘pom poms’ to conical blooms.

Most hydrangea flowers are white. However, what is interesting about this plant is that the colouring of the flowers are dependent on the soil content. Neutral soils yield cream blossoms. When soil is more acidic it releases more aluminum, which is taken up by the hydrangea and turns its blossoms blue! Alkaline soils result in soft pink and purple flowers clusters.

Because of the size and shape of hydrangeas, they can be used in arrangements in many different ways, and not many are needed to create a big impact. They look striking on their own, or can also be used very efficiently to fill space between other flowers.