Curious Chemistry Behind Hydrangea Colors!
Hydrangeas’ varied hues secret is in the soil pH and the right additives! Hydrangea macrophylla One of the world’s most popular ornamental flowers conceals a bouquet of biological and biochemical surprises. The iconic “snowball” shaped blooms of Hydrangea macrophylla are popular for both landscaping and the cut flower market. And their popularity continues to grow! Hydrangeas are ubiquitous —but they are not what they seem. T he bloom of the hydrangea is not a true flower, but an inflorescence : Sepals , or modified leaves, make up most of the bloom and overshadow the small, almost unnoticeable fertile floral portions at the center. The bloom colors are what really make the hydrangea stand out: They range from pink to blue, including all shades of lavender to violet to purple, as well as green and white. Color intensities run the gamut from vibrant to pastel. Noticeably absent from the kaleidoscope of possible hydrangea colors are yellows and oranges. Hydrangea colors are not
