Mystery "Ficus" Identified as Hydrangea

HRW received a 5+ foot "ficus" with flower spikes and leaf drop. The label said ficus, but it wasn't Ficus benjamina. Initial photos were unclear due to background.

Identification Process

Darlene requested better photos against a plain wall plus close-ups of leaves. The follow-up close-up revealed the plant is a hydrangea shrub—not a ficus at all (ficus don't have flower spikes).

Correct Care

• Plant outdoors in ground ASAP in a fairly sunny location.
• It's deciduous: dies back in winter, regrows in spring.
• Similar to hydrangeas sold at Lowe's/Home Depot.
• Will rebloom each summer.
• Keep watered during dry spells.

Indoor culture caused the decline. Outdoor planting restores its natural cycle.