French hydrangea , Florist's Hydrangea, Bigleaf Hydrangea

Hydrangea macrophylla

Physical Characteristics

Hydrangea macrophylla is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft) by 3 m (9ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from July 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 semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

E. Asia - Japan.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Hedge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Shoots Edible Uses: Sweetener The young leaves, when dried and rubbed between the hands, become very sweet and are used to make a sweet tea called 'tea of heaven', it is used in Buddhist ceremonies[183]. The leaves contain phellodulcin (its chemical formula is C16 H14 O), a very sweet substance that can be used as a sugar substitute[116, 183]. One small leaf is sufficient to sweeten a cup of tea[218]. The older leaves can be dried, powdered and used as a flavouring on foods[105, 177]. The young leaves and shoots are also eaten cooked[105, 177]. Young leaves contain the toxin hydrocyanic acid, this reduces as the leaves grow older, often to zero levels[218].

Medicinal Uses

Antiperiodic Antitussive Diuretic Malaria The leaves, roots and flowers are antimalarial, antitussive and diuretic[218, 240]. They are said to be a more potent antimalarial than quinine, due to the presence of an alkaloid[240].

Known Hazards

None known