Shooting star hydrangea is a deciduous shrub that is native to Japan. It has large, pointed leaves and clusters of white flowers that bloom in summer. The flowers are followed by small, blue berries.
About soil condition, shooting star hydrangea grows best in organic, humus-rich, moist, but well-drained soils, in part sun to shade. Amend soils with compost prior to planting. Avoid overly wet soils, which can lead to fungal root rot.
Not too different with other hydrangeas, the shooting star hydrangea requires plenty of sun to thrive. It should be planted in a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. If the plant does not get enough sun, it will not produce as many flowers.
The temperature condition that is best for shooting star hydrangea is cool to cold weather. This plant does not like it when the temperature gets too hot. It is best to plant this type of hydrangea in an area that gets a lot of sun during the day but is sheltered from the wind.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50%. The plant does not tolerate drought well and will die quickly if the soil dries out. The leaves will wilt and the flowers will droop if the plant is not getting enough water. The best way to water this plant is to use a drip system or soaker hose so that the water goes directly to the roots.
Mentioning fertilizer, usually the plant 's roots are the key to a healthy and vibrant plant. Fertilize your shooting star hydrangea once a month with a water-soluble fertilizer to keep the leaves green and the blooms plentiful.
Pruning is an important part of maintaining your shooting star hydrangea. Prune in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Cut back any dead or damaged stems, and remove any that are crossing or rubbing against each other. Trim back any stems that are longer than you want them to be.
Propagation of shooting star hydrangea is typically done through softwood cuttings taken from new growth in the spring. The cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long and have at least 2-3 sets of leaves. Cut just below a node (where the leaves attach to the stem) and remove the bottom leaves. Stick the cutting in a well-drained potting mix and water thoroughly. Keep the pot in a shady spot and mist the leaves daily to keep the cutting moist. Roots should form in 4-8 weeks. Once roots have formed, transplant the cutting to a larger pot or plant in the ground.
Usually, the plant growth rate is between 6 and 12 inches per year. However, some varieties can grow up to 24 inches per year. The shooting star hydrangea is a deciduous plant, which means it will lose its leaves in the fall. It is a plant that does best in full sun to partial shade. It is also a plant that is drought tolerant once it is established.
Common problems for this kind of plant are leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot. Leaf spot is a fungal disease that can cause the leaves of the plant to turn brown and fall off. Powdery mildew is another fungal disease that can cause the leaves of the plant to become covered in a white powder. Root rot is a disease that can kill the roots of the plant, causing it to wilt and die.
Source:
Under the Solano Sun - Agriculture and Natural Resources Blogs
Hydrangea - North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox
What are shooting stars made of? - Ask Dr. Universe
