The hydrangea is a gorgeous flower that is not only full of symbolism but also has a long line of history and emotional depth. It is native to Asia and the Americas, the oldest fossils date back to 40 to 65 million years in Alaska.
Ranging from small bushes to climbing vines, the hydrangeas, with over 70–75 species and more than 600 cultivars, flourish particularly in China and Japan, where their variety is most apparent.
What month do hydrangeas bloom?
It depends. Some wait till mid or late summer, while some don't bloom until early or even late spring. It depends on the hydrangea type, the climate and the weather conditions. Also, wrong trimming or bad growing circumstances can postpone flowering or even stop it completely.
Hydrangea flower benefits
Hydrangeas are loaded with vital minerals like calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, sulfur, and phosphorus. The roots are even more impressive. You may even be surprised to know that they are rich in flavonoids, quercetin, kaempferol, volatile oils, and saponins, which defend against inflammation and cell damage
Traditional benefits
Historically, hydrangea has been used to treat prostate and urinary tract issues, including urethritis, cystitis, prostatitis, urinary calculi, and an enlarged prostate gland. That's not even all. It also aids kidney and bladder health; many people use it for urinary issues and kidney stones as well. Its diuretic properties help to raise urine flow, reduce urinary tract infection symptoms, and ease back pain caused by kidney problems.
Even in some areas, people eat the bark to relieve stomach problems and heartburn. In Nepal, the leaves are brewed up for colds, coughs, and bronchitis. Got a fever? Try a decoction made from the stem bark. Some even say hydrangea helps to calm irritable mucous membranes and reduce vomiting.
As you may expect, the plant's advantages also cover alleviating chronic rheumatism, scurvy, paralysis, dropsy, and other conditions.
Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidants
Hydrangea is renowned for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Its alkaloid concentration, which resembles the chemicals in drugs used for treating inflammation, especially sets it remarkable. Especially in diseases like kidney inflammation and arthritis, these natural compounds could help lower swelling and alleviate pain.
And that's not even all. Did you know that among the main antioxidants in hydrangea is quercetin? That is a well-known substance that helps the body in several ways. It helps to control diabetes, lower blood pressure, decrease inflammation all over the body, improve immune function, and guard against free radical damage. Since free radicals are unstable chemicals that harm cells and promote ageing and disease, quercetin's capacity to neutralise them is a significant benefit.
How to care for your hydrangea flower bouquet
Known for their rich, cloud-like blooms and bright colors, hydrangeas are also among the thirstiest flowers. Your hydrangea arrangement can remain fresh and lovely for far longer than you might anticipate with the appropriate care. These basic guidelines will show you how to care for a hydrangea flower so that your flowers will last and look their best.
- Trim the stems right away upon bringing your arrangement home. Make sure you use sharp scissors to cut each stem at a 45-degree angle. Trim them under flowing water or submerge the ends in a bowl while cutting for optimal results. Any leaves below the waterline should be removed since they could rot and contaminate the water.
- Put your bouquet in a tall vase with a wide opening to let the stems spread and drink adequately. Then fill the vase with cool, clean water and change the water every 1–2 days to keep it fresh. Cloudiness or murkiness indicates you should replace it right away.
- Flower food also helps hydrangeas, so it's either you use the packet that comes with your bouquet or create your own: combine the fresh water with 1 teaspoon of sugar, 2–3 drops of bleach, and 1 teaspoon of lemon or lime juice.
- Trim the stems every few days to get rid of any accumulation possibly obstructing water absorption. To prevent air pockets, be sure to cut underwater and at a slant. Watch the blooms as well; get rid of any wilting or browning flowers immediately. It stops the release of ethylene gas, which can hasten the ageing of adjacent flowers.
- Should your hydrangeas start to wither unexpectedly, hold off on discarding them. Get cool water and fill a sink or large bowl. For 30 to 45 minutes, immerse the stems and blooms. Re-trim the stems and put the bouquet back in a clean vase with fresh water after soaking. This usually revives hydrangeas brilliantly.
