Available in shades such as pink, blue, creamy white and rustic green, hydrangeas have become increasingly popular as cut flowers due to their versatility and impressive, eye-catching appearance. The large blooms create a stunning focal point and add a touch of vintage glamour to any arrangement. But ever wondered if there’s more to this flower than meets the eye? We've put together a list of little-known facts that every hydrangea enthusiast needs to know.
Meaning behind the name
The name Hydrangea has its roots in the Greek language. Back in 1739, botanist Grovonius gave this flower the Latin name Hydrangea, a combination of the words ‘hydro’, which refers to water, and ‘angeion’, meaning jar. This is fitting for two reasons - the shape of this flower’s seeds, and its need for generous amounts of watering to thrive and bloom well.
It's more archaic name, Hortensia, was named after French astronomer and mathematician Nicole-Reine Hortense Lepaute. In Latin, the name Hortensia also indicates a specific selection of bigleaf hydrangea, which goes by the scientific name Hydrangea macrophylla 'Hortensia'.
Symbolism behind the flower
Hydrangeas have a number of symbolic meanings depending on its colour - for instance, pink hydrangeas represent love, sincerity, and heartfelt emotions, whilst blue hydrangeas can signify gratitude, forgiveness, and understanding. Purple hydrangeas on the other hand, express a desire to get to know someone better.
In Japan, hydrangeas are often associated with conveying apologies. An old Japanese legend has it that an emperor gifted a blue hydrangea bouquet to the woman he loved as a sincere apology for neglecting her. For the rest of Asia, pink hydrangeas are a popular choice for telling someone that they represent the beat to your heart, and are often associated with beauty and grandeur.
Wilted hydrangeas can be revived in water
Lovers of cut flowers may have noticed hydrangeas tend to be the first to wilt in a floral arrangement. But before you throw them away, some extra care may be all it takes to revive cut hydrangeas and keep them in gorgeous condition.
Simply submerge your hydrangeas in cold tap water. You can do so in a bowl, sink, bucket, or whatever else is available. Keep your flowers submerged for a few hours or until they start coming to life again. Those that are particularly wilted will need longer in the water, so be sure to monitor their progress in the water until you feel satisfied with the state of the blooms.
Hydrangeas don’t have petals
It may look like hydrangeas have tons of petals, but what they’re actually known as are sepals. Sepals are small leaves that protect the flower bud, and usually start out green before turning into the pigmented pinks, purples, and blues that grab our attention.
Hydrangeas are allergy safe flowers
Hydrangeas are unique because they come with a sticky pollen that makes it difficult for wind to blow around. For this reason, these flowers are perfect for individuals who are allergy-prone. They're also fragrance free which is a great option for those susceptible to headaches or have sensitive noses.
Hydrangeas are charming flowers that are often associated with often associated with summer. But other than its beauty, there are also numerous interesting facts about hydrangeas that not many are aware about. We hope this article has provided a deeper understanding and appreciation of this flower that you have so come to love.
If you're looking at sending a hydrangea bouquet to express your thoughts to a loved one, look no further than Petite Fleur for all your floral needs. We carry a wide range of flower bouquets, on top of providing timely same day flower delivery services. Speak with our experienced florists to find out more today!