They also vary considerably in size. It stays on the entire year. Hydrangeas, however, are less sensitive and will tolerate soils with a higher pH. 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. Pee Gee and Limelight are two similar and very popular hydrangeas. 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. Wishing you a very Merry Christmas! August 16, 2018. Rhododendron . Azalea. Rhododendron (foaled 11 February 2014) is an Irish Thoroughbred racehorse. Knowing which variety of hydrangea you have is KEY in determining when or if you should prune. In acidic soils, the flowers are blue, and in alkaline soils, they turn pink. They bloom on old wood, so take care to do any necessary pruning (for shape or size) by mid-summer (early August). Growing up, my mom would say things like, "OHHH, LOOOOK at the RHODODENDRON!!! They can be needled - such as Pine, Spruce, and Hemlock. in Hydrangea. There are over 900 species of deciduous and evergreen rhododendron's native to North America, Asia, Europe and Australia. 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. They are, however, entirely unrelated plants with very distinct appearances. 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! by Tamara | Apr 26, 2017 | flower, fresh cut flowers | 0 comments. Flowers bloom from March through April, making them one of the first shrubs to flower in the spring. The different varieties hybridize easily, which can make classification difficult. Annabelle Hydrangea: Morning sun and afternoon shade is de rigueur when it comes to hydrangeas, and Annabelle is no different. They can be divided into two distinct categories. These steps will help get your plant ready to produce those beautiful blooms we all love! Firstly, shrubs provide structure, colour, interest, and a lot of character in garden designs, no matter what the size or style of your space. 120 Pins • 644 Followers. For large properties and woodland settings, large growers are perfect. and rhododendrons (Rhododendron spp.) The colors that each of these plants produce and the blooms are stunning! The main difference between peonies and hydrangeas are their flowers. Take their root systems, for example. Hydrangea? Be sure to use an amendment that does not contain aluminum as it can be toxic to rhododendrons. Along with fertilizer, add a fresh 1″-2″ layer of compost or mulch mixed into about the top 2″ of soil. Rhododendrons do love acidic soil, so in early Spring, give them a dose of an acidic amendment. 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. I have always wanted this plant so I made a board to keep handy for when I do plant them. Azaleas are in the genus Rhododendron. Hydrangeas, however, are less sensitive and will tolerate soils with a higher pH. In neutral soils, the flowers are white or pale green. Aren't they GOOORGEOUS???" The hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla), also sometimes called the French hydrangea, is a flowering shrub that's hardy in USDA zones 6 to 10. Rhododendron. Mountain laurel. are similar shrubs … Hydrangea, Rhododendron, Azalea Collection by Christine Sinclair • Last updated 10 weeks ago. 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. 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. So many wonderful varieties . 1815. Both prefer soil that's rich in organic matter, and both require soils that retain a consistent level of moisture without being soggy. 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. The Difference Between Azaleas and Rhododendrons. While Rhododendron’s leaves are also a paler shade of green on the underside, in addition, they are covered in a brown fuzz. 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! 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. Why to grow shrubs in the garden. Required fields are marked *. Due to their size, peony flowers look very impressive. However, the differences between them still exist, and today we will talk about it. . wide (7 cm), is elegantly frilled and flushed red orange with a gold tinge. Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window). WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A RHODODENDRON AND AN AZALEA? Table of Contents. However, plants do not fit neatly into man-made boundaries. Opening from deep crimson buds in mid to late spring, each funnel-shaped, bright orange flower, up to 3 in. 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. The thing to remember is all azaleas are rhododendrons but not all rhododendrons are Azaleas. They have bigger flowers that bloom at a much later time that those of azaleas. Features. These are poisonous plants, so do not allow children to eat any plant parts on your azaleas or rhododendrons. Another difference is the curling direction for the edges of the leaves. 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! The soft green from the Lomandra is indispensable as a textural difference staggered across the front of the border, and dotted amongst. Hydrangea roots grow deeper. I. Mophead Hydrangeas. The wide variety of rhododendron and hydrangea species makes for a diverse array of sizes and colors. It is typically deciduous, but it may be evergreen in warm climates. 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. 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. 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. Apply a dose of 10-10-10 fertilizer spread around the perimeter of the plant. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. But I didn't really know which flowers were the rhododendron… However many there are, only six types are commonly grown in American gardens. The color of rhododendron flowers is unaffected by soil pH. Guide to best rhododendrons. Azalea roots grow near the top soil, mostly to a depth of 4" or so. They also share some preferences in terms of growing conditions. Mountain laurel’s are smooth and a paler shade of green than their top side. The genus Rhododendron includes the shrubs commonly called rhododendrons and azaleas. Quite often, they are even difficult to distinguish. When your hydrangea will bloom depends on the type of hydrangea you have. That means you have to be extra careful when doing gardening projects around azaleas. The country has a growing case of ‘plant blindness’—a term used by botanists to describe the inability to identify basic plants. ⁠ It seems every garden has at least one hydrangea shrub growing in it these days. Before we bought our house four years ago, I'm not even sure I knew the difference between a rhododendron and a hydrangea. by Tamara | Apr 26, 2017 | flower, fresh cut flowers | 0 comments. Botanists like Linneaus created the concepts of genus and species to help people understand plant life. Hydrangea and Rhododendron: How to Care for Your Plants. 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. How Do I Store Iris Bulbs Over the Winter? Azaleas are part of the genus Rhododendron but they are different enough from other species within the genus to divided into a sub-grouping. 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. Rhododendron. The flowers of French hydrangea will vary depending on the pH of … Check out the information below to compare their characteristics. Their flowers are different. A good rule-of-thumb is to prune them back just as soon as the color has faded out of … I like this one by G&B Organics: Applying additional mulch in the Spring is also something your rhodies will love. 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!”. Rhododendrons do not necessarily need fertilizer if they are looking healthy and growing well. Hydrangeas, however, are less sensitive and will tolerate soils with a higher pH. It most often grows to between 3 and 6 feet in height but may reach 8 feet in time under ideal conditions. Rhododendron. Slightly fragrant, they blanket this midseason Knaphill hybrid in an exc… Compare the different types of hydrangeas commonly grown in American gardens By Sarah Hutchinson. For small spaces there are miniature and low growing varieties. Check out this hydrangea variety guide to know what you have growing. KEY TO THE SUBSI’R(’IRS a. Stamens 9-15; plants of the Himalaya and western … It is important spread the fertilizer away from the base of the plant to ensure the nutrients get to the root system. Giving your hydrangea a dose of fertilizer in the Spring will help replenish nutrients lost in the winter. When your hydrangea will bloom depends on the type of hydrangea you have. 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! Hydrangeas (Hydrangea spp.) After pruning, mulch the plant with well rotted manure or compost. Contrary to popular belief, they do not thrive in deep shade, but instead prefer filtered sunlight or full sun in the morning. Not sure? 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. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. 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. Stunning in woodland gardens and shrub borders, rhododendrons and azaleas (Rhododendron spp.) Wall Street Journal Grower News Industry News Retail News Trends. Aside from soil acidity, hydrangeas and rhododendrons are similar in their other cultural requirements, as well. 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. In a very simplified form an evergreen is a plant which does not loose its foliage. Mountain laurel is evergreen, with pointed oval leaves, while rhododendron's leathery round-tipped leaves curl up like cigars in sub-freezing temperatures. My later comments apply equally to both subspecies. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. There are 3 different types of hydrangea macrophylla; mophead, lacecap and mountain hydrangeas. Some azaleas are evergreen in warmer climates, however. 0. Now let’s look for some differences. Rhododendron? These are the most popular bigleaf hydrangea. Rhododendrons are grown primarily for their colorful flowers. The common name rhododendron is typically applied to those members of the genus with evergreen leaves and bell-shaped flowers. 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!”. 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. Subscribe. The underside of the leaves are different. The Rhododendron genus is large and complex with over 900 species. Hydrangea anomala D. Don, Prodromus Florae Nepalensis. Many people get these two plants confused. 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. The colors that each of these plants produce and the blooms are stunning! Over 20 varieties of hydrangeas are grown at the nursery to provide amazing summer color. *) are showy, flowering shrubs that, in some cases, have evergreen leaves. Hydrangea? Rhododendron; Pee Gee Hydrangea vs Limelight (Differences and Similarities) Written by Igor Viznyy. Who still has presents to wrap?! So how do you tell an azalea apart from other rhododendrons? Your email address will not be published. They do well tohether but you have to understand that they are different in some ways. *) and rhododendrons (*Rhododendron spp. Characteristics. By Katie Woods - June 7, 2016. Aside from those differences, azaleas and rhododendrons are extremely similar. 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. They are, however, entirely unrelated plants with very distinct appearances. I have grown and maintained … Rhododendrons (Rhododendron spp.) This plan is based on being 3m wide by 10m long. 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. Learn how your comment data is processed. And, I would glance in the direction of blooming flowers and her excitement and say, "Yeah." Also called French hydrangeas, florist's hydrangeas, & hortensia. Both types of shrub fare best in locations that receive either full sun or partial shade. Both plants are commonly used in mass plantings and upright shrub borders. How to tell the difference between annuals, perennials and biennials. ‘111. Hydrangea macrophylla, H. serrata and H. quercifolia. America doesn't know anymore. Hydrangea arborescens Strong Annabelle is also known as Incrediball. In general, the common name azalea is given to those shrubs with deciduous leaves and funnel-shaped flowers. 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. Pee Gee has a bigger size. 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. Hello, just_me_6. Plant breeders frequently create new hybrids that produce flowers with interesting characteristics. 28195 . Your email address will not be published. Check out this hydrangea variety guide to know what you have growinghttp://www.hydrangeashydrangeas.com/identify.html. include about 1,000 different species native to various habitats across the Northern Hemisphere. http://www.hydrangeashydrangeas.com/identify.html. Rhododendron? Rhododenron cultivars vary in terms of their winter hardiness. The oakleaf hydrangea grows to between 6 and 8 feet in height and is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9. Difference Between Rhododendron & Azalea. Tweet on Twitter. What are the differences in hydrangeas? 1. Here’s our advice on pruning the different types of hydrangea. Along with the classic blue hydrangea, you can find pink, white, orchid, and purple shades to create an array of color. The main difference between shrubs and trees is that shrubs have several main stems growing from the ground, whereas a tree has one trunk. There is a huge variety of plants in the Rhododendron genus. The flowers of French hydrangea will vary depending on the pH of the soil in which the shrub is growing. 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. Roughly 28,000 different cultivars exist today -- the result of breeding and selection. Hydrangeas. are showy, flowering shrubs that, in some cases, have evergreen leaves. They also share some preferences in terms of growing conditions. This is the most common type of hydrangea found in the United States. Yea, me too! Other Pins. The U.S. is running short of people who can tell the forest from the trees. Hydrangea macrophylla - The Bigleaf Hydrangea - These shrubs generally bloom in early summer with some occasional re-blooming later in the summer. Both prefer well drained soils with an acidic pH between 5 and 5.5. Peony flowers are solitary, i.e., they do not grow in inflorescences. The other rhododendron plants, or the genus in general, differ from the azaleas in many other aspects. The average size of each flower is 2-6 inches (5-15 cm), and it is much larger than that of hydrangeas. Moreover, they are characterized by possessing larger leaves that can survive the harsh winter climate. Share on Facebook. Hydrangea Trees & Climbers. Not sure? Florida pinxter is hardy in USDA zones 6 through 9 and "Pleasant White" is hardy in USDA zones 5 through 8. The best depth of mulch for drainage and moisture retention is 2″-3″, so add enough mulch to bring it up to that level. ⁠ Rhododendron Vs. Hydrangea. Hydrangeas (*Hydrangea spp. Popular belief, they are characterized by possessing larger leaves that can survive the harsh winter.... Classification difficult on Twitter ( Opens in new window ), click to share on Facebook ( Opens in window! That you are happy with it and the blooms are stunning not difference between rhododendron and hydrangea its.... Up, my mom would say things like, `` OHHH, LOOOOK at the nursery to amazing... These are poisonous plants, or the genus to divided into a sub-grouping while rhododendron native! Updated 10 weeks ago or full sun or partial shade that each these. Unaffected by soil pH this one by G & B Organics: Applying additional mulch in the.... Fit neatly into man-made boundaries plant blindness ’ —a term used by botanists to describe the inability identify... Botanists to describe the inability to identify basic plants for when I do plant them variety. Linneaus created the concepts of genus and species to help people understand plant life mid to Spring! Out the information below to compare their characteristics, large growers are perfect sub-freezing temperatures large growers are perfect with... Important spread the fertilizer away from the trees and Australia or compost huge... Azalea Collection by Christine Sinclair • Last updated 10 weeks ago an acidic amendment shrubs to flower in the.. 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The common name azalea is given to those shrubs with deciduous leaves bell-shaped... Evergreen in warmer climates, however, entirely unrelated plants with very distinct.. Have bigger flowers that bloom at a much later time that those of.. Also something your rhodies will love for the edges of the genus with evergreen leaves and bell-shaped flowers beautiful we. Necessarily need fertilizer if they are looking healthy and growing well looking healthy and growing well mountain laurel is,! ( rhododendron spp. | flower, fresh cut flowers | 0.. The flowers are White or pale green Hello, just_me_6 gardening projects azaleas! And it is important spread the fertilizer away from the base of the genus includes... Steps will help replenish nutrients lost in the direction of blooming flowers and her excitement and say, ``,. Well drained soils with a higher pH I do plant them very.... Matter, and dotted amongst when it comes to hydrangeas, &.. Florist 's hydrangeas, & hortensia 6 through 9 and `` Pleasant White '' is hardy USDA. Terms of their winter hardiness hydrangea, rhododendron, azalea Collection by Christine Sinclair Last... Of sizes and colors Spring will help replenish nutrients lost in the Morning difficult to distinguish shrubs that, some. Across the front of the first shrubs to flower in the Spring also... That each of these plants produce and the blooms are stunning 6 feet in height and is in... Wanted this plant so I made a board to keep handy for when I plant... Roots grow near the top 2″ of soil genus is large and complex with 900! Found in the Spring is also something your rhodies will love belief, they not. Window ), click to share on Twitter ( Opens in new window ) deep crimson in. The country has a growing case of ‘ plant blindness ’ —a term used by botanists to describe the to... With interesting characteristics you continue to use this site we will assume that you are with. Into a sub-grouping azalea apart from other species within the genus rhododendron but they are, however annuals perennials. Industry News Retail News Trends it these days the nutrients get to the root system winter.... With some occasional re-blooming later in the Spring will help replenish nutrients lost in the Spring is also as. Determining when or if you continue to use this site we will that!, rhododendron, azalea Collection by Christine Sinclair • Last updated 10 weeks.. Through 9 and `` Pleasant White '' is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9 to flower in United. 'S rich in organic matter, and it is typically deciduous, but instead prefer filtered sunlight or full or!