Hydrangea chungii
Image: Yong Xu, Nan Zhao, Le Duc Thanh (cc-by-nc)
NameHydrangea chungii
Scientific NameHydrangea chungii Rehder
Common NamesChung's Hydrangea
Plant FamilyHydrangeaceae
Natural HabitatNative to forests and thickets in mountainous regions of southeastern China, including provinces like Fujian, Guangdong, Guangxi, Hunan, and Jiangxi.
Parts Usedroot,leaf
Medicinal Actionsdiuretic,anti-inflammatory,antimicrobial
Traditional UsesTraditionally used in Chinese medicine for treating urinary tract infections, kidney stones, bladder stones, and prostate issues. It is valued for its lithotriptic properties, helping to dissolve and expel urinary calculi.
Active Constituentshydrangin, saponins, flavonoids, hydrangeic acid
Preparation Methodsdecoction,tincture
Contraindications & WarningsMay cause gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) in large doses. Pregnant or nursing women and individuals with kidney disease should avoid use without professional medical advice. Potential interactions with diuretics or blood thinners.
Cultivation NotesPrefers moist, well-drained, acidic to neutral soil. Thrives in partial shade but can tolerate full sun with consistent moisture. Hardy in temperate climates.
Rarityuncommon
Description
Hydrangea chungii is a deciduous shrub characterized by ovate to elliptic leaves with serrated margins. It produces a terminal corymbose cyme inflorescence featuring both showy sterile florets and smaller fertile flowers.
