This hydrangea/hortensia, native of southern & eastern Asia, is thriving in downtown Greensboro. The flowers can be flat or more rounded like a mop head. The colors can range from white to light lime green, to pink and purple. The mophead flower on this bush is bright pink, indicative of the alkaline soil. In Japan, certain hydrangea leaves are crumpled into teas. However, according to Wikipedia, hydrangeas are moderately toxic. Perhaps the cyanide is found in the flowers. At any rate, research it more before you try to make tea.

If you love hydrangeas, you might want to consider attending the first annual Hydrangea and Garden Tour in Augusta, Georgia on June 24th. If you go, let us know what you learn. Do you have hydrangeas in your community?