Let’s learn more about hydrangeas! Trivia quiz and fun facts about hydrangeas for kids

rainy season (tsuyu)

In Japan, hydrangeas mainly bloom beautifully during the rainy season. In June, when there is a lot of rain, the hydrangeas that bloom quietly and gracefully are truly lovely.

Atsu and Ai

The origin of the word “ajisai” (hydrangea) is said to come from the way many blue flowers gather together: combining “atsumari” (gathering) and “ai-iro” (indigo/blue) to form “ajisai.” In other words, 集 (gather) + 藍 (indigo) = あじさい. There are also various other theories.

sourness

The color of hydrangea flowers changes depending on how acidic the soil is. This is called acidity. Strong acidity makes them blue, while strong alkalinity makes them pink.

jelly

“Hydrangea jelly” is a type of Japanese confectionery that represents hydrangea flowers using colorful jelly. Its beautiful appearance makes it a popular sweet during the rainy season.

Hydrangea Station

Ajisai Station is the name of a station on the Iga Railway in Mie Prefecture. It is also sometimes used as a building name, such as Ajisai Hall. It can be fun to look into the different uses!

Because a flower’s name was mistakenly attached in a Chinese book

It’s because the kanji “紫陽花,” which had been used for a different flower in ancient Chinese texts, came to be used for hydrangeas in Japan. It was originally the name of another flower, but by mistake it became the name for hydrangeas.

Because there is a lot of rain in the summer, it grows easily.

Hydrangeas bloom vibrantly in early summer, when it becomes warm and there’s plenty of rain during the damp rainy season. Hydrangeas are flowers that love rain and warmth.