Hydrangea macrophylla is a deciduous shrub admired for its relatively early blooming period and rose-pink, rounded flower heads. This Hydrangea macrophylla cultivar features typical large, ovate leaves and produces blooms on old wood, making proper pruning important. It belongs to the Hydrangeaceae family. The Early Blue and Early Rosa are from breeder Hydrangea Breeders Association (NL).
Origin: Hydrangea macrophylla is native to Japan.
Light: It thrives in partial shade.
Water: 'Early Rosa' prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil.
Soil: It prefers fertile, humus-rich soil, ideally acidic to neutral. Soil pH can influence flower color.
Flowering: It blooms early in the summer, producing rose-pink, rounded flower heads. Flower color can change depending on soil pH.
Uses:
- Primarily grown as an ornamental shrub.
- Excellent for borders, foundation plantings, and shaded gardens.
- Flowers are suitable for cut flower arrangements.
Important Considerations:
- Blooms on old wood, so pruning should be limited to dead or damaged branches and done immediately after flowering.
- Soil pH affects flower color; acidic soil promotes blue hues, while alkaline soil favors pinks.
- Early blooming makes it a valuable addition to extend the Hydrangea season.
Toxicity: Hydrangeas contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can be toxic, especially if ingested in large quantities.