Hydrangea arborescens (Smooth Hydrangea)

One of only two hydrangea species native to North America, smooth hydrangea brings genuine shade tolerance and reliable summer-into-fall bloom to a woodland planting - flowering on new wood means winter dieback never diminishes the following season's display.

Species Overview

Hydrangea arborescens, commonly called smooth hydrangea or wild hydrangea, is a small, densely multi-stemmed deciduous shrub native to woodlands in the eastern United States. It produces large, rounded flower clusters that emerge pale green, mature to creamy white, and eventually fade to tan, adding winter interest. Stems are covered with attractive peeling bark, earning it the nickname "sevenbark."

Application

• Woodland garden and shade border plantings
• Massed plantings or informal hedges in part-shade settings
• Erosion control on moist, rocky wooded slopes and streambanks
• Pollinator habitat - nectar-rich blooms visited by bees and butterflies

Growing Conditions / Specification Data

• Light: Part Shade - tolerates full sun with consistent moisture, or deep shade
• Soil/Moisture Tolerance: Moist, rich, well-drained soils; pH adaptable from acid to alkaline
• Drought Tolerance: Low - drought sensitive
• Flood Tolerance: Moderate - Suited to rain garden plantings and periodically wet soil, though not a true wetland obligate.
• Growth Rate: Rapid
• Plant Type: Shrub
• Mature Height: 2-4 ft.
• Fall Color: Yellow
• Bloom Color / Period: White, Green; May-July
• Wetland Indicator Status: FACU (Facultative Upland)
• Native Range: New York to Florida, west to Iowa, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Louisiana
• Hydrology: Mesic-Moist
• Root Depth: Moderate (12-24 in.)
• Salinity Tolerance: Low
• Deer Resistance: No (Frequently Damaged)
• Shade Tolerance: Tolerant
• Growth Habit: Rounded, Multi-stemmed
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9
• Pollinator Value: Supports bees, supports butterflies

Planting Guidance

• Blooms on new wood - can be pruned back close to the ground in late winter each year to promote vigorous stem growth and larger flower clusters.