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.