Hydrangea aspera, commonly known as Rough-Leaved Hydrangea, is a deciduous shrub native to woodland margins, thickets, and stream banks in China, the Himalayas, and Southeast Asia. It typically grows to 3 meters (10 feet) tall and wide, featuring broadly oval, velvety leaves that are dark green on top with a downy texture underneath. The species name ’aspera’ aptly describes the rough texture of the leaf undersides. This shrub is known for its distinctive inflorescences, which are large, flat-topped clusters of flowers appearing in late summer. The blooms consist of small, fertile flowers in shades of pale blue and pink, surrounded by showy, white or pale pink sterile florets that attract pollinators and provide ornamental value.

Rough-Leaved Hydrangea is valued for its textured foliage and lacecap flower heads that add a unique aesthetic to garden settings. It is used in mixed borders, woodland gardens, and as a specimen plant. While it can tolerate full sun in cooler climates, it prefers part shade, especially in hotter regions. The shrub requires consistently moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. It is relatively low maintenance but benefits from regular watering during dry periods and mulching to retain soil moisture. Pruning is minimal, generally just to remove dead wood or to shape the plant. Potential problems include leaf spot, powdery mildew, and bud blight. It is not known for aggressive roots or significant disease issues, making it a reliable choice for gardeners.CC BY-SA 4.0