Hydrangea febrifuga, commonly known as Chinese Quinine, is an evergreen subshrub native to the understory of montane forests and along stream banks in South and Southeast Asia, including regions of China, Nepal, and India. It typically grows to a height of 3-7 feet and a width of 3-5 feet. The plant features glossy, dark green leaves and clusters of lacecap flowers that are blue, purple, and white, blooming in the summer. The flowers are moderately showy, attracting pollinators and adding a subtle charm to garden settings.

Chinese Quinine is valued for its medicinal properties and is used in traditional Chinese medicine as one of the 50 fundamental herbs. It is also appreciated for its ornamental qualities, particularly its attractive foliage and delicate flowers. In cultivation, it is often used in woodland gardens, shaded borders, and as an understory plant in larger landscapes. It requires part shade to thrive and prefers medium amounts of water. While adaptable to various soil types, it performs best in well-drained soils. Gardeners should be aware that it may require protection from harsh winter conditions in cooler climates.CC BY-SA 4.0