Not a Grass (Hydrangea)
Hydrangea macrophylla · Deciduous Shrub, Perennial (Non-C3/C4 Grass)
Grass Family
Hydrangeaceae (Non-Poaceae)
Grass Category
Ornamental Shrub (Not a turf/pasture grass)
Variety / Cultivar
Likely Mophead (Hortensia) cultivar
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 5-9; sensitive to late spring frosts; dormant in winter.
About This Grass
The plant in the image is not a grass, but a Hydrangea. It features large, opposite, ovate leaves with serrated margins and a leathery texture. It grows as a woody shrub rather than a groundcover.
Blade Characteristics
Not blades, but leaves; broad, ovate to elliptical, 4-8 inches long, deep green with prominent pinnate venation and serrated (toothed) edges.
Root System
Fibrous, shallow, and dense; does not produce rhizomes or stolons like turfgrass; high water demands.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Japan and East Asia; widely adapted to temperate climates worldwide
Growth Habit
Upright, rounded deciduous shrub; multi-stemmed clumping habit
Sunlight & Water Needs
Partial shade to dappled sun; high water requirements (wilt-prone); prefers moist, well-drained, acidic to neutral soil.
Mowing & Maintenance
Should not be mowed; requires annual pruning and deadheading; maintenance level: Medium to High.
Special Characteristics
Known for large flower clusters (panicles or cymes); bloom color is often pH-dependent (blue in acidic soil, pink in alkaline).
Ecological Information
Introduced ornamental; provides cover for small wildlife; flowers are attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies.