Mophead Hydrangea
hydrangea aspera
Also known as: ["Aspera Hydrangea","Velvet Leaf Hydrangea"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to Asia, known for its large, velvety leaves and clusters of flowers that can vary in color from blue to pink.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Cornales |
| Family: | Hydrangeaceae |
| Genus: | Hydrangea |
| Botanical Name: | Hydrangea aspera |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: partially shaded garden bed with protection from harsh afternoon sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if indoor air is very dry
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth on reblooming varieties.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of morning sun with afternoon shade). Adjust for hotter climates to prevent leaf scorch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to sunlight changes. Protect from intense afternoon sun, especially in summer. Indoors, place near an east-facing window or use sheer curtains for filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateModerate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Morning sun is ideal; avoid harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days, or when top inch of soil is dry
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
moist, well-drained, rich in organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler temperatures but avoids prolonged frost or extreme heat.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize in spring before new growth; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn; water before and after feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or coarse sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pots after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of old stems, deadheading spent flowers, and shaping for air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead or weak growth. Avoid heavy pruning on old wood varieties, as they bloom on previous season's growth.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, loppers for thicker stems, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune before bud break; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose new pot; prepare fresh soil; inspect roots; water after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply slowly to allow absorption and continue until water drains from the bottom. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and disease risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer, increasing to twice weekly in hot, dry conditions. Reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter, ensuring soil is not waterlogged.
Soil Improvement
Add compost, peat moss, or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure. Incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf scorch, bud drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt, turn brown, or drop. Growth slows, and buds may fail to develop in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; move potted plants indoors; use frost cloth for protection in mild freezes.
Hot Stress
Leaves wilt, curl, or develop brown edges. Flowers may fade quickly, and growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture; mist leaves in extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water before and after; avoid fall/winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply a second light feeding after the first bloom. Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to the cyanogenic glycosides in Hydrangea aspera, which can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal distress. The plant is not highly toxic but can lead to discomfort if ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Hydrangea aspera can lead to mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of cyanogenic glycosides. The effects are typically not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicHydrangea aspera contains cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide upon ingestion. The toxicity is generally mild to moderate, causing gastrointestinal discomfort and other symptoms. The physiological impact is primarily localized to the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I change the color of my Hydrangea aspera flowers?
A: The flower color can be influenced by soil pH; acidic soils (pH below 6.0) produce blue flowers, while alkaline soils (pH above 7.0) yield pink flowers.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Hydrangea aspera turning yellow?
A: Yellowing leaves may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or poor drainage. Adjust watering and soil conditions accordingly.
Q: Is Hydrangea aspera toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested, causing gastrointestinal upset. Keep it out of reach of pets.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Hydrangeaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, or when top |
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