Hydrangea
Hydrangea macrophylla
flowerHydrangeas produce spectacular large flower heads in pink, blue, purple, or white. Soil pH determines flower colour — acidic soil produces blue flowers, alkaline soil produces pink.
Full care guide →
Rhododendron
Rhododendron ponticum
shrubAn evergreen shrub with large, leathery leaves and showy purple-pink flowers in spring. This vigorous, fast-growing species is prized for ornamental value and serves as a rootstock for hybrid rhododendrons. It is highly adaptable to shade and acidic soils.
Full care guide →Care aspect
Hydrangea
Rhododendron
light_modeLight
Morning sun, afternoon shade. Avoid harsh midday sun.
Partial shade to dappled sunlight; tolerates full shade but flowers better with some light. Protect from intense afternoon sun, especially in hot climates.
water_dropWater
Deeply and regularly. Dislikes drought. Mulch to retain moisture.
Keep soil consistently moist but well-draining; water deeply during dry spells. Avoid both waterlogging and drought stress.
compostSoil
Moist, well-draining, humus-rich soil. pH affects colour.
Acidic, well-draining soil (pH 4.5–6.0) rich in organic matter such as peat or leaf mold. Poor drainage causes root problems.
scienceFertiliser
Balanced slow-release in spring. High potassium for blooms.
Light feeding after flowering with acid-loving plant fertilizer; excessive fertilizer promotes vegetative growth over blooms.
thermometerTemperature
Hardy to about -15°C. Buds frost-sensitive.
Prefers cool to temperate conditions; hardy but benefits from shelter in exposed sites. Tolerates frost well once established.
humidity_percentageHumidity
Moderate to high.
Prefers moderate to high humidity; benefits from misting in dry conditions or drought stress situations.
Toxicity
Audience
Hydrangea
Rhododendron
cats
warningToxic
warningToxic
dogs
warningToxic
warningToxic
children
warningToxic
warningToxic
Hydrangea — USDA Zones
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Rhododendron — USDA Zones
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