Maintenance Landscaping Design

Pistachio hydrangea is a deciduous shrub with large, showy flowers. The flowers are a deep pink to purple color and are borne in clusters. The leaves are a deep green color and are divided into leaflets. The pistachio hydrangea is native to China and Japan.

Alternative name

• Alpine hydrangea
  
• Mountain hydrangea
  
• Tree hydrangea
  
• Oakleaf hydrangea
  
• Snowball hydrangea

Basic info

• The scientific name for pistachio hydrangea is Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris.
  
• It is a deciduous shrub that is native to China and Japan.
  
• It grows to be about 15-20 feet tall and wide.
  
• The leaves are dark green and the flowers are white.
  
• It blooms in late spring to early summer.
  
• It prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.
  
• It is not drought tolerant.
  
• It is deer resistant.
  
• It can be propagated by layering or rooting stem cuttings.
  
• It is susceptible to powdery mildew.

Related plant:
Pistachio Plant

Growing Steps

1. For pistachio hydrangea, first step is to find a good location. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
   
2. Amend the soil with some organic matter to help improve drainage.
   
3. Dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the plant’s root ball.
   
4. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil. Tamp down lightly.
   
5. Water the plant deeply immediately after planting.
   
6. Mulch around the plant to help with moisture retention.
   
7. Pistachio hydrangea will need regular watering during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. After that, it is fairly drought tolerant.
   
8. Fertilize annually with a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-
   
9. Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the plant and remove any dead or damaged branches.
   
10. Enjoy the beautiful blooms of your pistachio hydrangea plant!

Related plant:
Pistachio Tree

Considering the Soil

About soil condition, the best for planting a pistachio hydrangea is in soil that has good drainage but holds moisture well. The plant does not like to be in soggy soil. The roots will rot if the plant is sitting in water. The plant also needs to be in soil that is high in organic matter. This will help the plant to get the nutrients that it needs.

About light

Like the other hydrangeas, the pistachio hydrangea (H. x 'Mariesii') benefits from at least six hours of sun per day, although it will flower best in full sun. In too much shade, the plant may become leggy and produce fewer flowers.

Ideal Temperature

The temperature condition that is best for the pistachio hydrangea is one that is cool and not too hot. This plant prefers temperatures that are in the 60s and 70s. It can tolerate some heat, but it will not do well in temperatures that are in the 80s or higher. The best way to ensure that the pistachio hydrangea gets the temperature it needs is to plant it in an area that gets some shade during the day.

Ideal Humidity

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 50%. If the humidity level is too low, the leaves will start to turn brown and crisp. If the humidity level is too high, the leaves will start to yellow and drop off.

Fertilizing

Regarding fertilizer, usually the plant does not need a lot. A general-purpose fertilizer applied in early spring is usually all that is needed. As for the roots, they are difficult to change once the plant is established. So, if you are not happy with where the roots are, you may want to consider transplanting the plant.

About light

Pruning is an important part of caring for your pistachio hydrangea. This shrub can be pruned in late winter or early spring. You should remove any dead or damaged branches, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other. You can also prune to shape the shrub or to control its size.

The Propagation

Propagation is best done in early spring, before the plant begins to grow. Cuttings can be taken from new growth and rooted in moist sand or perlite. The cuttings should be about 6 inches long and should have at least two sets of leaves. Allow the cuttings to callous over for a few days before planting them. Keep the soil moist until the cuttings are rooted.

Plant Growth

Usually, the plant growth rate is rapid during the first few years after planting. However, growth rate gradually slows with age. Maturity is typically reached after 10-15 years. During the growing season, pistachio hydrangeas require regular watering and fertilization.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are powdery mildew, root rot, and stem dieback. If you see any of these problems on your plant, it is best to consult with a professional to get rid of the problem.

Growing Tips

• Remember to water your plants regularly. Pistachio hydrangeas need at least 1 inch of water per week.
  
• Place your plants in an area of your garden that receives full sun.
  
• Amend the soil around your plants with compost or other organic matter before planting.
  
• Space your plants at least 3 feet apart to allow for adequate air circulation.
  
• Prune your plants regularly to encourage new growth and to keep them from getting too leggy.
  
• Fertilize your plants once a month with a balanced fertilizer.
  
• Keep an eye out for pests and diseases and treat your plants accordingly.
  
• Deadhead your plants regularly to prolong blooming.
  
• Overwinter your plants by bringing them indoors or covering them with a frost blanket.
  
• Enjoy the beautiful blooms of your pistachio hydrangeas all season long!

You May Like

• Pistacia atlantica: Meaning: (hydrangea ketmia)
  
• Pistacia bosnia: Meaning:
  
• Pistacia chinensis: Meaning:
  
• Pistacia coccinea: Meaning: (hyacinth hydrangea)
  
• Pistacia mexicana: Meaning:
  
• Pistacia nussbaumeriana: Meaning:
  
• Pistacia palaestina: Meaning:
  
• Pistacia parviflora: Meaning: (hyacinth hydrangea)
  
• Pistacia ruscifolia: Meaning: (holly hydrangea)
  
• Pistacia terebinthus: Meaning: (hydrangea ketmia)

Source:
Pistachio | Diseases and Pests, Description, Uses, Propagation
Pistachio | Fruit & Nut Research & Information Center - UC Davis
Hydrangea - North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox