This hydrangea/hortensia, native of southern & eastern Asia, is thriving in downtown Greensboro. The flowers can be flat or more rounded like a mop head. The colors can range from white to light lime green, to pink and purple. The mophead flower on this bush is bright pink, indicative of the alkaline soil. In Japan, certain hydrangea leaves are crumpled into teas. However, according to Wikipedia, hydrangeas are moderately toxic. Perhaps the cyanide is found in the flowers. At any rate, research it more before you try to make tea.
If you love hydrangeas, you might want to consider attending the first annual Hydrangea and Garden Tour in Augusta, Georgia on June 24th. If you go, let us know what you learn. Do you have hydrangeas in your community?
The first year I had my hydrangeas they were a lovely blue. Now they are a pale blue bordering on white. I just looked up for the umpteenth time that I need to apply aluminum sulfate in March, April and May if I want them to stay blue. Too late for this year, alas. Your pink one is spectacular.
Posted by: Jane Mitchell | Thursday, May 27, 2010 at 08:27 AM
Unfortunately, they don't grow here.
Posted by: B^2 | Thursday, May 27, 2010 at 08:30 AM
I don't think I have ever seen pink before. Lovely.
Posted by: barbara farr | Thursday, May 27, 2010 at 07:11 PM
Breathtaking hydrangeas! WOW!
Sunday Bridges X will post at 0001 hrs central Europe time Sunday if you are able to participate!
Posted by: Louis la Vache | Friday, May 28, 2010 at 04:34 AM