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Hydrangeas: Unveiling the Beauty, Diversity, and Significance of These Captivating Blooms

Hydrangeas are the epitome of refined and pure beauty in the floral world. Join us as we delve into the unique characteristics, diverse classifications, and profound symbolism of these enchanting flowers.

Administrator

13 July, 2024

Hydrangeas, or Hydrangea, have long been a symbol of beauty, with their intricate blooms composed of countless small, colorful flowers. Let’s explore more about this captivating flower!

1 What are Hydrangeas?

Origin of Hydrangeas

Hydrangea plants (English name: Hydrangea) belong to the Hydrangea genus and are native to warm temperate regions of East Asia, the high mountains of South Asia, Southeast Asia, and even the Americas.

Hydrangeas are woody, flowering plants that reproduce asexually. While most hydrangeas are naturally white, their color can vary depending on the pH level of the soil, resulting in hues of blue, pink, or purple. Hydrangeas thrive in humid conditions and cool temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius.

As a result, they are commonly cultivated in countries like Japan, England, South Korea, the United States, and France. In Vietnam, the most suitable climate for growing hydrangeas can be found in places like Da Lat, Tam Dao, and Sa Pa. Hydrangeas are typically propagated through stem cutting and layering methods.

Despite their captivating beauty, all parts of the hydrangea plant are toxic and can cause poisoning if ingested.

Origin and characteristics of Hydrangeas

Legend of Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are often shrouded in an “enigmatic” allure, with many people curious about the legends and tales associated with them. While different countries have their own stories, the legend of Lia is perhaps the most well-known.

Lia was an exceptionally beautiful young woman desired by many suitors. However, her heart belonged to Erike, a boy from the neighboring village with whom she had grown up. Their wedding was supposed to be a joyous occasion, but fate had other plans.

Lia’s village had a unique custom: every six years, they would choose a female virgin who had just turned 16 to become their oracle. This chosen girl would be revered as a holy figure and was required to remain in the temple for six years, after which she could never marry.

Unfortunately, Lia was selected as the oracle, and her wedding plans had to be abruptly canceled. Unable to bear the pain of separation, Erike fled the tribe.

Lia, now burdened with the responsibilities of an oracle, never forgot her love for Erike. Every day, she prayed for his safety and happiness.

The Legend of Hydrangeas

Three years later, Erike returned to the village and pleaded with Lia to elope with him. However, their escape was discovered, and they were forced to flee into the deep forest. As they continued to run, their strength gradually diminished, and the tribe drew closer.

Faced with the prospect of capture, Erike knew he would likely be executed. Suddenly, a spear was hurled in his direction, but Lia bravely threw herself in its path and suffered a severe injury.

Despite her wounds, Lia managed to stand, staff in hand, and raised her arms to the sky. Miraculously, the entire field transformed into a forest of tall trees, providing a barrier between them and their pursuers.

Among the bushes, millions of small white flowers bloomed in spherical shapes, filling the forest with a sea of white, as if bidding farewell to Lia in her final moments.

Lia’s tragic death left Erike filled with regret and self-reproach. He decided to stay by her side to protect her, but eventually succumbed to starvation and dehydration himself.

Witnessing the depth of their love, the flowers gradually changed color, reflecting red for passion, blue for hope, and purple for loyalty. And thus, the hydrangea flower was named to commemorate their enduring love.

Hydrangeas in full bloom

2 Types of Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas can be broadly classified into two types: tropical and temperate, depending on the climate.

Tropical hydrangeas typically have long, pointed leaves, with a low and slender stem.
Temperate hydrangeas, on the other hand, feature a taller, sturdier stem and rounder leaves.

Tropical and temperate hydrangeas

Hydrangeas come in a variety of colors, including pristine white, blue, pink, and purple. Additionally, there are hybrid varieties that exhibit multiple colors, such as white with pink or blue edges.

The vibrant colors of hydrangeas

3 Significance of Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas embody elegance and refinement, reminiscent of a graceful maiden. They are often associated with haughtiness and coldness. However, their meaning can vary across different cultures.

In England: Hydrangeas serve as a reminder to those who are content with their current situation not to become complacent. As such, they are often placed on tables to inspire continued effort and resilience in the face of challenges.
In Japan: Hydrangeas convey a message of apology or gratitude.
In Vietnam: Hydrangeas symbolize the evolution of love, marking new stages and progression in a relationship. For this reason, brides sometimes carry hydrangea bouquets at their weddings.

The significance of hydrangeas

We hope that this exploration of the characteristics, types, and meanings of hydrangeas has been enlightening.

Frequently asked questions

Hydrangeas are a captivating genus of flowering plants, boasting over 75 species and an array of vibrant colors. What sets them apart is their ability to display different colors depending on the soil pH. They are also unique in their long blooming period, providing a stunning display from late spring to autumn.

The magic lies in the presence of aluminum in the soil and how it interacts with the plant’s ability to absorb or exclude it. In acidic soils (lower pH), hydrangeas will typically display blue or purple hues due to the aluminum being readily available for absorption. In alkaline soils (higher pH), the plants produce pink or red flowers as the aluminum is less accessible, allowing for anthocyanin pigments to shine through.

Hydrangeas carry a rich symbolism across various cultures. In Japan, they symbolize apology, gratitude, and reconciliation, often used in traditional apology ceremonies. In China, they represent a wish for a noble and prosperous life. In the language of flowers, different hydrangea colors convey specific meanings: blue for apology, pink for heartfelt emotion, and purple for a desire for deeper understanding.

Hydrangeas make excellent gifts for a variety of occasions. Their vibrant colors and long-lasting blooms bring joy to any recipient. They are perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, get-well-soon wishes, or simply to express gratitude. With their symbolic meanings, they can also be gifted to convey apologies or to celebrate new beginnings.

Hydrangeas thrive with regular watering, preferably in the morning or when the sun is mild. They prefer partial shade, especially in hotter climates, and well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Pruning is generally done after flowering, and deadheading can encourage re-blooming. With the right care, hydrangeas will reward you with their captivating beauty for years.