Flower of the Month – February 2018

Name: Hydrangea

Other names: Hydie, Hortensia

Colours: Green, White, Pink, Purple, Blue

Family: Hyrangeaceae Genus: Hydrangea

Availability:  December to April

What’s in a name: In 1739 botanist Grovonius gave this flower the Latin name Hydrangea as he thought the shape looked like an ancient water pitcher. He combined the words 'hydro' (=water) and 'angeion' (=barrel or pitcher) which resulted in the name Hydrangea. It is quite appropriate that the name of the flower is associated with water as this plant requires a lot of water to grow and survive as a cut flower.

Some interesting facts: The exact color of the hydrangea flower depends largely on the acidic or alkaline levels of the soil in which they are grown. Alkaline soils produce purples and pinks, neutral soils sprout whites and pale cream colors and highly acidic soils produce the  blue hues. By changing the pH level in the soil you can change the colour of the flower from year to year.

Why we love it: With over 70 species of Hydrangea and many different colour shades there is sure to be one you will love!