Hydrangeaceae

smooth hydrangea

Hydrangea arborescens

Synonyms

Hydrangea arborescens ssp. arborescens
Hydrangea arborescens var. oblonga

Plant Type

Shrub (less than 10 ft)

Life Cycle

Perennial

Tolerant of

Deer

Inolerant of

Dry Soil, Poorly Drained Soil

Propagation

By seed, By cutting

Plant Propagation Notes

Seeds require sunlight for germination. Cuttings should be taken from softwood.

Plant Planting Notes

Flowering occurs from new growth, so cutting back in the fall promotes more blooms the following season.

Plants/Diseases

Susceptible to several pathogens that cause bud blight, bacterial wilt, leaf spot, mold, rust, and powdery mildew. Sometimes aphids, mites, scale, and nematodes can be an issue.

Wildlife Benefits

Nectar/pollen source for pollinating insects, Host plant for butterfly larvae

Leaves

Leaves opposite, cordate, obovate, or ovate with serrate margins. Pale green undersides.

Flowers

Corymb with tiny five petaled white to cream flowers.

Fruit

Capsule.

Bark

Light brown to light gray and peeling or shredding.

Toxicity

No known toxicity.

USDA Hardiness Zones

3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Light Exposure

Full Sun, Part Sun/Shade

Soil Moisture

Moist

Soil Drainage

Well-drained

Soil pH

Acidic (less than 6.0), Neutral (6.0-8.0)

Native in South Carolina?

Yes

Plant Native Habitat

Rock outcrops and streambanks in forests.

Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)

Secure (G5)

Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)

Not Listed

Distribution Notes

Rare in the South Carolina coastal plain and sandhills. Uncommon in the piedmont and mountains.