Hydrangeaceae, commonly known as the Hydrangea Family, is a fascinating group of plants belonging to the order Cornales. With approximately 19 genera and 260 species, this family encompasses a diverse range of woody ornamental trees, vines, shrubs, and herbs. Hydrangeaceae is distributed across various regions, primarily including the northern temperate locations, as well as tropical and sub-tropical areas.
One of the most well-known members of the Hydrangea Family is the Hydrangea genus, which consists of numerous stunning flowering shrubs highly valued for their large, showy flower heads. These flowers come in an array of colors, including shades of white, pink, purple, and blue, depending on the cultivar and soil pH. Hydrangea species are cherished for their ornamental beauty, making them popular choices for garden landscapes, parks, and floral arrangements.
The Hydrangeaceae family also includes other notable genera, such as Philadelphus (Mock Orange), Deutzia, and Schizophragma (Japanese Hydrangea Vine), each displaying their unique characteristics and contributing to the overall diversity and allure of the family.
Whether adorning gardens with their magnificent blooms or gracing landscapes with their elegant forms, the plants of Hydrangeaceae captivate with their beauty and enhance the aesthetic appeal of their surroundings. From vibrant, voluminous flower clusters to lush foliage, they offer a range of ornamental features that delight both gardeners and admirers of nature’s wonders.
Next time you come across a striking Hydrangea or any other member of the Hydrangeaceae family, take a moment to appreciate the rich diversity and captivating charm that these plants bring to our natural landscapes.
The members usually have opposite pairs of leaves and flowers with four to five petals (sometimes 5 or more) and 4 to 10 sepals. Flowers are usually bisexual. They usually have 4 too many stamens. They are usually in clusters. The fruits are capsules or berries. The fruits usually have several seeds. The seeds are usually winged.
Other synonyms for the family include Philadelphaceae and Kirengeshomaceae.
The genera in the Hydrangeaceae family include:
Adamia
Broussaisia
Cardiandra
Carpenteria
Cornidia
Cyanitis
Decumaria
Deinanthe
Deutzia
Dichroa
Edwinia
Fendlera
Fendlerella
Hortensia
Hydrangea
Jamesia
Kirengeshoma
Neodeutzia
Philadelphus
Pileostegia
Platycrater
Schizophragma
Whipplea
