Wild Hydrangea

(Hydrangea arborescens)

Wild Hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens)

Fritzmann2002

CC BY-SA 4.0

Image By: Fritzmann2002

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Copyright Notice: Photo by: Fritzmann2002 | License Type: CC BY-SA 4.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 | Uploader: Fritzmann2002 | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons | Title: Hydrangea_arborescens_'Annabelle'_in_flower.jpg | Notes: {{Information |Description={{en|1=Juniperus squamata 'Meyeri'}} {{pl|1=Jałowiec łuskowaty odmiana 'Meyeri'}} |Source=Praca własna osoby przesyłającej (own work by uploader) |Author=[[User:Crusier|Crusier]] |Date=26 października 2008 |Perm

Estimated Native Range

Summary

Hydrangea arborescens, commonly known as Wild Hydrangea, is a deciduous shrub native to the understory of woodlands and along stream banks in the Eastern United States. It typically grows up to 3 meters (10 feet) tall and wide, with a rounded habit. The plant features large, ovate, serrated leaves that are 8 to 18 cm long. Its flowers are in large, rounded clusters known as corymbs, with the outer ring of sterile flowers being larger and showier, typically 1 to 3 cm in diameter, creating a mophead effect. These blooms are usually white and appear from May to July, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Wild Hydrangea is valued for its ease of maintenance and its ability to thrive in shadier conditions, making it suitable for woodland gardens, naturalized areas, and as a foundation plant. It prefers part shade but can tolerate full sun if kept moist. It adapts to a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained, and requires medium amounts of water.

In cultivation, Wild Hydrangea is appreciated for its large, showy flower heads and its ability to attract pollinators. It is often used in border plantings, as a specimen, or in mass plantings for a dramatic effect in shaded areas. It is relatively low-maintenance but may require additional watering during dry spells. Pruning old wood after flowering can encourage new growth and larger flower heads. Potential problems include leaf spot and powdery mildew, but these can be managed with good air circulation and proper watering practices. It is not known for aggressive roots or significant disease issues.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

Plant Type: Shrub
Height: 3-5 feet
Width: 3-5 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate
Flower Color: White
Flowering Season: Summer
Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

Sun: Part Shade
Water: Medium
Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Erosion Control, Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Understory of woodlands and along stream banks in the Eastern United States

Other Names

Common Names: Sevenbark , Smooth Hydrangea , Tree Hydrangea , Wald-Hortensie , Hortensia De Virginie , Hortensia En Arbre , Hydrangelle Arborescente , Vidjehortensia , Migugsugug , 미국수국

Scientific Names: Hydrangea arborescens , Hydrangea arborescens var. arborescens , Hydrangea arborescens subsp. arborescens , Hydrangea arborescens var. oblonga , Hydrangea cordata , Hydrangea arborescens var. australis , Hydrangea arborescens var. sterilis , Hydrangea arborescens f. acarpa , Hydrangea arborescens var. cordata , Hydrangea vulgaris

GBIF Accepted Name: Hydrangea arborescens L.