Hydrangea arborescens

Object Details

Description: This native hydrangea tolerates a range of conditions, as long as it is in part shade. It can be pruned back aggressively as a shrub, or allowed to sprawl in a more wild form. Unlike cultivated hydrangeas, it does not have an abundance of sterile flowers on its flower heads, so it does not form the puffball-like clusters that many people associate with hydrangeas. Despite this, it is still a beautiful plant, and an excellent addition to the landscape.
Hardiness: -40 - 30 F
Attracts: Butterflies, moths, songbirds. Larval host for hydrangea sphinx moth (Darapsa versicolor).
Bloom Time: May to July; scattered blooming through September
Medicinal / Pharmaceutical: Parts of this plant have been used by the Cherokee as an emetic and antiseptic. Has been used as a stimulant, for stomache problems, high blood pressure, and to treat burns or swollen muscles.
Provenance: Uncertain

Life Form: Deciduous shrub/sub-shrub
Bloom Characteristics: White corymbs are made up of individual 4-5 petaled flowers. Corymbs are 2-6" (5-15.2 cm) across. A few large, sterile flowers appear at the margines of the clusters.
Fall Color: Yellow
Foliage Characteristics: Simple, opposite, cordate to ovate green leaves have serrate margines. Leaves are 3-6" (7.6-15.2 cm) across and up to 6" (15.2 cm) long.
Plant Size: 3-5' tall x 3-5' wide (.9-1.5 x .9-1.5 meters)