Hydrangea

Hydrangea anomala

Physical Characteristics

Hydrangea anomala is a deciduous Climber growing to 12 m (39ft 4in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to July, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very acid soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.

Distribution

E. Asia - China to the Himalayas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; not Deep Shade; Ground Cover; East Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Sap Edible Uses: Condiment Sweetener Leaves - cooked. A cucumber taste[183]. The Japanese crush the leaves and use them fresh with miso[177, 183]. A boiled concoction of the leaves is used to make a syrup[177, 183]. The sweet sap is used as a drink[183].

Medicinal Uses

The leaves are used medicinally[266]. No further information is given.

Known Hazards

None known