Is it worth planting hydrangea near the house: what dangers the plant may pose

Hydrangeas, due to their enchanting beauty and exquisite charm, have long been a favorite plant for garden decoration. These luxurious flowers can turn any outdoor space into a paradise thanks to their fragrant aroma and bright colors.

SSPDaily said that it is important to be careful when planting hydrangeas near your home, as there are several factors to consider.

Cultural significance and symbolism of hydrangeas

In different cultures, the hydrangea flower has different symbolic meanings. In Japanese culture, it represents love, gratitude, humility, and deep emotions. In American culture, on the contrary, it is associated with prosperity and well-being.

In Europe, the hydrangea symbolizes eternal love, respect, femininity, tenderness, and grace. The color of the flower has its own meaning: white - purity and innocence, pink - love and tenderness, blue - mystical knowledge and deep wisdom.

Considerations for planting

If you decide to plant a hydrangea near your home, there are several factors to consider. First, sufficient light is essential because the plants thrive in sunny locations. Insufficient sunlight can hinder growth or even stop flowering completely.

There is an intriguing cultural belief among some Japanese families that they refrain from planting hydrangeas near their homes. They associate them with mourning and consider them funeral plants due to a peculiar coincidence.

The Japanese rainy season coincides with the peak of hydrangea bloom. In the past, when medical resources were limited, this period witnessed an unfortunate increase in mortality. Nowadays, however, life expectancy does not depend on the rainy season, making this belief unfounded.

Potential dangers and toxicity of hydrangeas

No matter how charming they are, hydrangeas pose a hidden threat. Some species of this plant are known to be poisonous, such as the round-leaved hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla), which contains a significant amount of cyanide. In general, they are moderately toxic plants that can cause food poisoning if ingested.

Hydrangeas also contain lectin, a natural substance that can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal disorders if consumed in large quantities. In case of accidental ingestion, you should immediately seek medical attention.