What is the origin of hydrangea flowers? What was the first variety of hydrangea flowers?
Hydrangeas are perennial flowering shrubs or vines native to Europe and Asia. They are also known as water hyacinths because of their ability to thrive in wet areas. The word hydrangea comes from two Greek words meaning “water plant” and “flower.” Hydrangeas are commonly grown as ornamental plants in gardens and parks. Their meaning is intertwined with grace and gratitude, which makes them the perfect gift for friends and benefactors. So, what are the best hydrangeas varieties?
Hydrangea Varieties
Hydrangeas are perennials that bloom year after year. Their blooms come in various colors, such as pink, white, red, purple, blue, yellow, orange, and even black. There are over 100 varieties of hydrangeas. Some of them include:
- Hylocereus undatus (Hylocereus) – This type of hydrangea has large, showy flowers that resemble those of morning glory.
- Hylocephalus scoparius (Hylocephalus) – This type has beautiful double flowers that look like miniature roses. It grows best with plenty of sun but can tolerate some shade.
- Hylocephalus polyrhizus (Hylocephalos) – This type has a long taproot and produces many small, greenish-yellow flowers. It does well in partial shade.
- Hylodesmum cuneatum (Hylodesmum) – This type has very fragrant, single flowers with dark centers. It tolerates both drought and high temperatures.
- Hylocereu succulentum (Hylocerea) – This type has lovely trumpet shaped flowers with bright colors and a sweet fragrance. It is hardy and tolerant of heat, cold, and dry conditions.
- Hylocereusa subulata (Hylocerella) – This type has large, showy, single flowers with deep rose coloration. It is easy to grow and doesn’t require extensive care.
- Hylocysprunus albus (Alba) – This type has pure white flowers with a delicate scent. It is one of the easiest types to grow.
- Hylotelephium telephium (Telephium) – This type has big, showy flowers with a strong scent. It is an excellent choice for cut flowers.
Photo by Gaetano Cessati
- Hylotelephrium spectabile (Spectabilis) – This type has showy, fragrant flowers with a pale center. It is easily propagated by seed.
- Hylostachys bicolor (Bicolor) – This type has attractive, double flowers with a rich violet color. It is not recommended for beginners.
- Hymenocallis littoralis (Littoralis) – This type of hybrid hydrangea has showy, fragranced flowers with a light pink center. It is suitable for all climates.
- Hymenocallis maculata (Maculata) – This type has double flowers with a pale yellow center. It is a good choice for beginners.
- Hydrangea arborescens (Arborescens) – This type has fragrant, showy flowers with dark centers.
- Hydrangea macrophylla (Macrophylla) – This type has huge, showy, fragrant, double flowers with a deep pink center. It is a great choice for cutting.
