Hydrangeas are beautiful flowering plants that are popular in gardens and landscapes. There are various types of hydrangeas, but one of the most common and well-known is the Hydrangea macrophylla. So, what exactly is the difference between a hydrangea and a Hydrangea macrophylla?
Firstly, let’s talk about the appearance of these plants. Hydrangeas in general have large, showy flower heads that come in a variety of colors, including shades of blue, pink, purple, and white. However, when we specifically look at the Hydrangea macrophylla, it is characterized by its mophead or lacecap flower clusters.
The mophead hydrangea, also known as H. macrophylla var. macrophylla, has rounded, lush flower heads that are composed of numerous individual flowers. These flowers are tightly packed together, creating a dense and full appearance. The flower heads of mophead hydrangeas are often quite large and can be several inches in diameter. They are known for their eye-catching beauty and are commonly seen in gardens and floral arrangements.
On the other hand, the lacecap hydrangea, also known as H. macrophylla var. normalis, has a slightly different flower structure. In the center of the lacecap hydrangea’s flower cluster, you will find tiny flower buds that haven’t fully opened yet. These buds are surrounded by a ring or crown of larger, showy flowers. This gives the lacecap hydrangea a unique and delicate appearance, with the tiny buds adding an interesting texture to the overall flower cluster.
Moving on to the leaves of these plants, Hydrangea macrophylla plants have distinct foliage that sets them apart from other hydrangea varieties. The leaves of H. macrophylla are heart-shaped, thick, and shiny. They have serrated or toothed edges, which give them a textured appearance. This textured foliage adds visual interest to the plant and can make it stand out in a garden. In comparison, other hydrangea varieties, such as smooth hydrangeas, have smoother leaves without the same level of texture.
The main difference between a hydrangea and a Hydrangea macrophylla lies in their flower structure and foliage. While hydrangeas in general have large, showy flower heads, the Hydrangea macrophylla specifically can be further categorized into mophead and lacecap varieties. Mophead hydrangeas have rounded, lush heads, while lacecap hydrangeas have tiny flower buds in the center surrounded by a crown of showy flowers. Additionally, H. macrophylla plants have heart-shaped, thick, shiny leaves with serrated edges, providing a more textured foliage compared to other hydrangea varieties. These distinctions make the Hydrangea macrophylla a unique and sought-after choice for gardeners and landscapers alike.
