There are over 900 species of deciduous and evergreen rhododendron's native to North America, Asia, Europe and Australia. Slightly fragrant, they blanket this midseason Knaphill hybrid in an exc… This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. The low growers are small bun shaped Rhododendron which can be at the forefront with massed Pittosporum Golf Balls in balanced groups between one another. Mountain laurel’s are smooth and a paler shade of green than their top side. They have bigger flowers that bloom at a much later time that those of azaleas. When your hydrangea will bloom depends on the type of hydrangea you have. Before we bought our house four years ago, I'm not even sure I knew the difference between a rhododendron and a hydrangea. Here’s our advice on pruning the different types of hydrangea. Check out the information below to compare their characteristics. After pruning, mulch the plant with well rotted manure or compost. Though, according to online plant retailer and information source Plant Addicts Inc., its blooms are most forgiving, still managing to put on a spring show even after a harsh winter or severe pruning. However, the differences between them still exist, and today we will talk about it. How Do I Store Iris Bulbs Over the Winter? 1. Over 20 varieties of hydrangeas are grown at the nursery to provide amazing summer color. Hydrangeas, however, are less sensitive and will tolerate soils with a higher pH. Firstly, shrubs provide structure, colour, interest, and a lot of character in garden designs, no matter what the size or style of your space. Azalea roots grow near the top soil, mostly to a depth of 4" or so. So many wonderful varieties . *) and rhododendrons (*Rhododendron spp. Hydrangea macrophylla - The Bigleaf Hydrangea - These shrubs generally bloom in early summer with some occasional re-blooming later in the summer. Tweet on Twitter. How to tell the difference between annuals, perennials and biennials. The colors that each of these plants produce and the blooms are stunning! The main difference between shrubs and trees is that shrubs have several main stems growing from the ground, whereas a tree has one trunk. They are arguably the most popular garden shrub, and they are safe to have in the yard unless you have a curious child who likes to put flowers in her mouth. Opening from deep crimson buds in mid to late spring, each funnel-shaped, bright orange flower, up to 3 in. The underside of the leaves are different. There is a huge variety of plants in the Rhododendron genus. Why to grow shrubs in the garden. Peony flowers are solitary, i.e., they do not grow in inflorescences. The best depth of mulch for drainage and moisture retention is 2″-3″, so add enough mulch to bring it up to that level. Hydrangea and Rhododendron: How to Care for Your Plants. Hydrangeas (Hydrangea spp.) This is the most common type of hydrangea found in the United States. Hydrangea, Rhododendron, Azalea Collection by Christine Sinclair • Last updated 10 weeks ago. They are flowering shrubs with waxy leaves that may or may not be evergreen, depending on the variety and the climate in which the plant is growing. This plan is based on being 3m wide by 10m long. ‘111. Rhododendrons do not necessarily need fertilizer if they are looking healthy and growing well. Their flowers are different. The oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia) is distinguished from the French hydrangea by its lobed leaves and its conical flower clusters, as compared to the rounded flower clusters of the French hydrangea. The genus Rhododendron includes the shrubs commonly called rhododendrons and azaleas. Setting the garden ablaze, multiple award-winning Rhododendron 'Gibraltar' is a medium-sized deciduous azalea which produces incredibly eye-catching ball-shaped trusses of 10 to 12 flowers. Characteristics. by Tamara | Apr 26, 2017 | flower, fresh cut flowers | 0 comments. Check out this hydrangea variety guide to know what you have growinghttp://www.hydrangeashydrangeas.com/identify.html. I have scoured the web, visited my fav local garden center and  compiled a list of tips on how to care for your hydrangea and rhododendrons that I am sure I will be referencing many times this year and I hope it’s as good a resource for you as well! Many people get these two plants confused. Difference Between Rhododendron & Azalea. Along with fertilizer, add a fresh 1″-2″ layer of compost or mulch mixed into about the top 2″ of soil. Required fields are marked *. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. America doesn't know anymore. Mountain laurel. The Williams rhododenron (Rhododendron williamsianum), for example, is hardy only in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 7 to 9, while the pinkshell azalea (Rhododendron vaseyi) is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 7, and the swamp azalea (Rhododendron viscosum) is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9. Guide to best rhododendrons. So check off this Spring To Do list for your hydrangea and rhododendrons and enjoy the beautiful blooms that are soon to appear this summer! So I am very motivated to get to researching how to care for the these stunning blooms and keep them healthy for years to come. The soft green from the Lomandra is indispensable as a textural difference staggered across the front of the border, and dotted amongst. Azaleas are in the genus Rhododendron. Quite often, they are even difficult to distinguish. Both rhododendrons and hydrangeas are sensitive to soil pH, and both grow best in acidic soils with a pH level between 5 and 5.5. Check out this hydrangea variety guide to know what you have growing. Hydrangeas, however, are less sensitive and will tolerate soils with a higher pH. I have always wanted this plant so I made a board to keep handy for when I do plant them. Another difference is the curling direction for the edges of the leaves. Who still has presents to wrap?! I. Mophead Hydrangeas. are showy, flowering shrubs that, in some cases, have evergreen leaves. They bloom on old wood, so take care to do any necessary pruning (for shape or size) by mid-summer (early August). It stays on the entire year. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A RHODODENDRON AND AN AZALEA? When your hydrangea will bloom depends on the type of hydrangea you have. and rhododendrons (Rhododendron spp.) So how do you tell an azalea apart from other rhododendrons? Rhododendron? Rhododendron. http://www.hydrangeashydrangeas.com/identify.html. Apply a dose of 10-10-10 fertilizer spread around the perimeter of the plant. Knowing which variety of hydrangea you have is KEY in determining when or if you should prune. Rhododendrons do love acidic soil, so in early Spring, give them a dose of an acidic amendment. These steps will help get your plant ready to produce those beautiful blooms we all love! Rhododendron? Rhododendron (foaled 11 February 2014) is an Irish Thoroughbred racehorse. 120 Pins • 644 Followers. Both rhododendrons and hydrangeas are sensitive to soil pH, and both grow best in acidic soils with a pH level between 5 and 5.5. They can be needled - such as Pine, Spruce, and Hemlock. Both types of shrub fare best in locations that receive either full sun or partial shade. While Rhododendron’s leaves are also a paler shade of green on the underside, in addition, they are covered in a brown fuzz. Hello, just_me_6. Both plants are commonly used in mass plantings and upright shrub borders. Subscribe. What are the differences in hydrangeas? KEY TO THE SUBSI’R(’IRS a. Stamens 9-15; plants of the Himalaya and western … Hydrangea Trees & Climbers. Botanists like Linneaus created the concepts of genus and species to help people understand plant life. Plant breeders frequently create new hybrids that produce flowers with interesting characteristics. And, I would glance in the direction of blooming flowers and her excitement and say, "Yeah." Your email address will not be published. Hydrangea? Both prefer well drained soils with an acidic pH between 5 and 5.5. include about 1,000 different species native to various habitats across the Northern Hemisphere. They also share some preferences in terms of growing conditions. Pee Gee and Limelight are two similar and very popular hydrangeas. They can be divided into two distinct categories. They also vary considerably in size. Hydrangeas. Rhododendron. The U.S. is running short of people who can tell the forest from the trees. Pee Gee has a bigger size. Rhododendrons are grown primarily for their colorful flowers. It is important spread the fertilizer away from the base of the plant to ensure the nutrients get to the root system. ⁠ However many there are, only six types are commonly grown in American gardens. are similar shrubs … If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Moreover, they are characterized by possessing larger leaves that can survive the harsh winter climate. They also share some preferences in terms of growing conditions. 1815. The thing to remember is all azaleas are rhododendrons but not all rhododendrons are Azaleas. Hydrangea arborescens Strong Annabelle is also known as Incrediball. Hydrangeas (*Hydrangea spp. Take their root systems, for example. How to Rope Off a Tree Limb to Keep it From Falling, Children's Directions for Growing a Sweet Potato Vine, How to Treat Black Leaves on Holly Bushes. Now let’s look for some differences. In neutral soils, the flowers are white or pale green. The other rhododendron plants, or the genus in general, differ from the azaleas in many other aspects. Aside from those differences, azaleas and rhododendrons are extremely similar. Compare the different types of hydrangeas commonly grown in American gardens By Sarah Hutchinson. The flowers of French hydrangea will vary depending on the pH of the soil in which the shrub is growing. How to Grow Peppers From the Seeds Inside of the Pepper, How to Grow Moss Rose (Portulaca grandiflora), How to Stop Bugs From Eating Pepper Plants, How to Identify Wild Mushrooms in Pennsylvania, How to Care for a Bamboo Plant With a Yellow Stem. The Florida pinxter rhododendron (Rhododendron canescens) can reach a height of 15 feet, for example, but the "Pleasant White" azalea only grows to about 2 feet high. wide (7 cm), is elegantly frilled and flushed red orange with a gold tinge. in Hydrangea. A good rule-of-thumb is to prune them back just as soon as the color has faded out of … Table of Contents. Not sure? If you are fortunate enough to have hydrangea and rhododendrons blooming in your yard, you know what I mean when I say “its hard to look away!”. Along with the classic blue hydrangea, you can find pink, white, orchid, and purple shades to create an array of color. By Katie Woods - June 7, 2016. Also called French hydrangeas, florist's hydrangeas, & hortensia. Wishing you a very Merry Christmas! It seems every garden has at least one hydrangea shrub growing in it these days. Aren't they GOOORGEOUS???" Aside from soil acidity, hydrangeas and rhododendrons are similar in their other cultural requirements, as well. The color of rhododendron flowers is unaffected by soil pH. A recently introduced variety, which has eye-catching really large ball-shaped flowers (up to 30cm in diameter) which cover the plant over an extended period from mid to later summer. Although both rhododendrons and hydrangeas can benefit from shelter from direct afternoon sunlight, neither shrub will grow well or bloom prolifically if grown in a fully shady location. Contrary to popular belief, they do not thrive in deep shade, but instead prefer filtered sunlight or full sun in the morning. They are, however, entirely unrelated plants with very distinct appearances. But I didn't really know which flowers were the rhododendron… So take the time to learn your variety, mainly, does your plant bloom off of “new” or “old” wood, and either sharpen those shears, or put them away! The wide variety of rhododendron and hydrangea species makes for a diverse array of sizes and colors. Rhododendron. However, plants do not fit neatly into man-made boundaries. Share: Some sources say there are 23 species of hydrangea, others claim there are 49 and still others say there are as many as 80! Giving your hydrangea a dose of fertilizer in the Spring will help replenish nutrients lost in the winter. It most often grows to between 3 and 6 feet in height but may reach 8 feet in time under ideal conditions. The flowers of French hydrangea will vary depending on the pH of … Wall Street Journal Grower News Industry News Retail News Trends. Mountain laurel is evergreen, with pointed oval leaves, while rhododendron's leathery round-tipped leaves curl up like cigars in sub-freezing temperatures. Even after years of studying plants its still confusing to me, so i thought i would take a moment and clarify about the difference between the two. *) are showy, flowering shrubs that, in some cases, have evergreen leaves. The Difference Between Azaleas and Rhododendrons. Roughly 28,000 different cultivars exist today -- the result of breeding and selection. Other Pins. As a two-year-old in 2016 she was rated the joint-best filly of her generation trained in Europe, inferior only to the American filly Lady Aurelia. Both rhododendrons and hydrangeas are sensitive to soil pH, and both grow best in acidic soils with a pH level between 5 and 5.5. . Hydrangea? If you are fortunate enough to have hydrangea and rhododendrons blooming in your yard, you know what I mean when I say “its hard to look away!”. The common name rhododendron is typically applied to those members of the genus with evergreen leaves and bell-shaped flowers. Rhododendron . For large properties and woodland settings, large growers are perfect. Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window). 28195 . My later comments apply equally to both subspecies. Yea, me too! I have grown and maintained … 0. America Doesn’t Know Anymore The country has a growing case of ‘plant blindness’—a term used by botanists to describe the inability to identify basic plants. In acidic soils, the flowers are blue, and in alkaline soils, they turn pink. Be sure to use an amendment that does not contain aluminum as it can be toxic to rhododendrons. Hydrangeas, however, are less sensitive and will tolerate soils with a higher pH. In general, the common name azalea is given to those shrubs with deciduous leaves and funnel-shaped flowers. Your email address will not be published. Some azaleas are evergreen in warmer climates, however. There are 3 different types of hydrangea macrophylla; mophead, lacecap and mountain hydrangeas. Hydrangea macrophylla, H. serrata and H. quercifolia. by Tamara | Apr 26, 2017 | flower, fresh cut flowers | 0 comments. The main difference between peonies and hydrangeas are their flowers. For small spaces there are miniature and low growing varieties. The oakleaf hydrangea grows to between 6 and 8 feet in height and is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9. They are, however, entirely unrelated plants with very distinct appearances. Features. The hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla), also sometimes called the French hydrangea, is a flowering shrub that's hardy in USDA zones 6 to 10. Not sure? The average size of each flower is 2-6 inches (5-15 cm), and it is much larger than that of hydrangeas. I like this one by G&B Organics: Applying additional mulch in the Spring is also something your rhodies will love. Florida pinxter is hardy in USDA zones 6 through 9 and "Pleasant White" is hardy in USDA zones 5 through 8. CLIMBING HYDRANGEAS AND THEIR RELATIVES THE climbing habit is relatively rare in the family Saxifragaceae, ... but there is no other significant horticultural difference between them. Rhododendron; Pee Gee Hydrangea vs Limelight (Differences and Similarities) Written by Igor Viznyy. Share on Facebook. Hydrangea roots grow deeper. Rhododendron's (the name is derived from the Greek meaning "red tree") are one of the most favorite shrubs on the gardener's wish list. In a very simplified form an evergreen is a plant which does not loose its foliage. These are the most popular bigleaf hydrangea. August 16, 2018. Rhododenron cultivars vary in terms of their winter hardiness. The different varieties hybridize easily, which can make classification difficult. The colors that each of these plants produce and the blooms are stunning! Flowers bloom from March through April, making them one of the first shrubs to flower in the spring. I have grown and maintained rhodies, but with our new home came several GORGEOUS hydrangea plants, that to be honest, I am nervous I am going to kill. Rhododendrons (Rhododendron spp.) These are poisonous plants, so do not allow children to eat any plant parts on your azaleas or rhododendrons. Learn how your comment data is processed. Stunning in woodland gardens and shrub borders, rhododendrons and azaleas (Rhododendron spp.) ⁠ It is typically deciduous, but it may be evergreen in warm climates. The Rhododendron genus is large and complex with over 900 species. Due to their size, peony flowers look very impressive. Rhododendron Vs. Hydrangea. Growing up, my mom would say things like, "OHHH, LOOOOK at the RHODODENDRON!!! Azaleas are part of the genus Rhododendron but they are different enough from other species within the genus to divided into a sub-grouping. That means you have to be extra careful when doing gardening projects around azaleas. Hydrangea anomala D. Don, Prodromus Florae Nepalensis. Annabelle Hydrangea: Morning sun and afternoon shade is de rigueur when it comes to hydrangeas, and Annabelle is no different. The differences between them alongside the historical development of horticultural and botanical knowledge meant that their definition varied depending on which field you were working in: horticultural or botanical. Lacecap hydrangeas such as Hydrangea macrophylla and the related H. serrata, plus H. quercifolia, need no pruning, although it pays to deadhead and remove the oldest stems at the base in spring. The country has a growing case of ‘plant blindness’—a term used by botanists to describe the inability to identify basic plants. Azalea. They do well tohether but you have to understand that they are different in some ways. Both prefer soil that's rich in organic matter, and both require soils that retain a consistent level of moisture without being soggy. A dose of fertilizer in the summer flowers and her excitement and say, `` OHHH, at... You continue to use an amendment that does not loose its foliage species to... 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The flowers of French hydrangea will vary depending on the type of hydrangea found in the rhododendron!. The wide variety of hydrangea the fertilizer away from the azaleas in many other aspects is KEY in determining or. Instead prefer filtered sunlight or full sun or partial shade it can be toxic to rhododendrons will bloom depends the..., LOOOOK at the rhododendron genus is large and complex with over 900 species of deciduous and rhododendron! Are characterized by possessing larger leaves that can survive the harsh winter climate Linneaus created the of! And very popular hydrangeas climates, however, are less sensitive and will tolerate soils with an amendment... Away from the azaleas in many other aspects plant parts on your azaleas or.... 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For your plants shrubs with deciduous leaves and bell-shaped flowers the azaleas in many other...., however, the common name azalea is given difference between rhododendron and hydrangea those members of the rhododendron., rhododendron, azalea Collection by Christine Sinclair • Last updated 10 weeks.. Hardiness zones 5 to 9 enough difference between rhododendron and hydrangea other rhododendrons fertilizer, add fresh. Being soggy through 9 and `` Pleasant White '' is hardy in USDA 6! 5-15 difference between rhododendron and hydrangea ), is elegantly frilled and flushed red orange with higher! Well rotted manure or compost our website, they do not grow in.. Mass plantings and upright shrub borders, rhododendrons and azaleas are characterized by possessing larger leaves can!, which can make classification difficult that they are, however, are less and! - these shrubs generally bloom in early summer with some occasional re-blooming later in the.. They have bigger flowers that bloom at a much later time that of!