Hortensie japoneza variegata - Hydrangea serrata Euphoria 'Pink'

Hydrangea serrata Euphoria 'Pink', also known as "Japanese hydrangea Euphoria Pink" or "mountain hydrangea," is a cultivar of the species Hydrangea serrata from the Hydrangeaceae family. This deciduous shrub, native to Japan and Korea, is valued for its delicate, vibrant pink flowers and compact stature, making it ideal for small gardens, borders, or containers. 'Euphoria Pink' stands out for its elegant inflorescences and resistance to varied conditions, offering a floral display from summer to autumn.

Appearance of leaves, flowers, and fruits

• Leaves: The leaves are deciduous, dark green, ovate, with finely serrated edges, 5-10 cm long. They are smaller and more delicate than those of Hydrangea macrophylla, with a smooth texture. In autumn, the leaves may take on shades of red, purple, or yellow, adding seasonal interest.
• Flowers: The flowers are grouped in flat inflorescences (corymbs), 10-15 cm in diameter, composed of large sterile flowers on the outside and small fertile flowers in the center. The color is a vibrant pink, which can vary depending on soil pH: more intense in neutral to alkaline soils (pH 6.5-7.5) and paler or lilac in acidic soils (pH 5-6). They bloom from June to September, with a subtle transition to darker or reddish shades in autumn. The flowers have a mild fragrance and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
• Fruits: It produces small, non-ornamental capsules containing fine seeds. These are insignificant aesthetically and rarely noticeable.

Growth characteristics

• Height and width: It grows as a compact shrub, reaching 0.8-1.2 meters in height and 0.8-1.2 meters in width, with a rounded, dense crown. Its small stature makes it ideal for limited spaces.
• Vigor: Growth is slow to moderate, with fine branching forming an orderly structure. It blooms on both old and new wood, requiring careful pruning.
• Type: It is a deciduous shrub with thin but sturdy branches, suitable for delicate ornamental landscapes.

Growing conditions

• Exposure: Prefers partial shade or filtered sun, ideally under trees with sparse crowns or near an east-facing wall. It tolerates morning sun, but full afternoon sun can burn leaves and fade flowers. Dense shade reduces flowering.
• Soil: Grows well in fertile, well-drained soils with consistent moisture, preferably acidic to neutral (pH 5-7). The pink color of the flowers is more intense in neutral to alkaline soils; in acidic soils, flowers may become lilac. Adding compost or peat improves the soil.
• Watering: Requires regular watering, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. It is sensitive to drought, especially in containers. A layer of organic mulch (e.g., bark) helps retain moisture.
• Pollination: The sterile flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, contributing to garden biodiversity.

Care and resistance

• Resistance: It is cold-hardy, tolerating temperatures down to -20°C (zones 5-9), suitable for temperate climates including Romania. Flower buds can be affected by late frosts, and in severe winters, mulching the base is recommended.
• Fertilization: Apply a fertilizer for acid-loving plants (e.g., for rhododendrons) in spring to stimulate flowering. Avoid excess nitrogen, which favors leaves over flowers.
• Pruning: Prune minimally in March-April, after the last frost, removing only dead, damaged branches or dried inflorescences. Excessive pruning can reduce flowering, as 'Euphoria Pink' blooms on old wood. For rejuvenation, cut 1/3 of branches every 3-4 years.
• Pests and diseases: May be affected by aphids, mites, or Japanese beetles. Diseases include powdery mildew, leaf spots, or root rot in waterlogged soils. Good ventilation and proper drainage reduce risks.
• Propagation: Propagated by softwood cuttings taken in summer or by layering. Cutting is the most effective method to preserve cultivar characteristics.
• Toxicity: It is toxic if ingested, containing compounds that can cause gastric discomfort in humans and animals. Caution is advised in gardens with children or pets.

Usage

Hydrangea serrata Euphoria 'Pink' is ideal for small gardens, mixed borders, Japanese gardens, or as a solitary plant in containers on terraces. The vibrant pink flowers combine beautifully with plants such as hosta, ferns, astilbes, or azaleas. It is perfect for cottage-style landscapes or shaded gardens, providing a delicate focal point. Dried flowers can be used in floral arrangements, and the colorful autumn foliage adds seasonal interest.

Origin

Hydrangea serrata is native to Japan and Korea, where it grows in moist mountain forests. The 'Euphoria Pink' cultivar is part of the Euphoria series, developed for compact stature, intensely colored flowers, and improved resistance. Probably selected in Europe or Japan, this variety is valued in ornamental horticulture for its adaptability to small spaces and refined aesthetics, being a more compact alternative to Hydrangea macrophylla.

Conclusion

Hydrangea serrata Euphoria 'Pink' is a charming deciduous shrub with vibrant pink flowers in flat inflorescences, blooming from summer to autumn. With simple care – partial shade, moist soil, and minimal pruning – it is a hardy and versatile plant, perfect for small gardens, containers, or borders. Attractive to pollinators and easy to integrate into various landscapes, 'Euphoria Pink' is ideal for gardeners seeking a delicate decorative element with seasonal visual impact.

Cold resistance: down to -20°C

Pot size: 15 cm
Height including pot: approx. 30 cm (varies depending on season)

Plants for garden or terrace are grown in unprotected spaces or with minimal protection (shade nets or hail nets). For this reason, naturally, they may not have perfect foliage – leaves may show marks, defects, or other damage.