Smooth Hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens) is a structural shrub with large and showy white inflorescence in summer. They prefer moist soil in shade to part shade where they grow to 6 feet tall, making them a good choice for planting in shaded slopes or basins. Companion plants include Cinnamon Fern (Osmunda cinnamomea) and Great Blue Lobelia (Lobelia siphilitica).
Maintenance
Leaf spot, rust, and powdery mildew can be a problem. Prune stems to the ground in late winter to promote sturdy fresh growth.
About
Light Requirements
Part Sun,
Shade Moisture Requirements
Slopes,
Basin Soil Requirements
Acidic,
Organically Rich Soil Height
Medium,
Tall Spacing
3 to 4 feet Category
Structural Attracts
Bees Illinois Native Plant Status
Yes Bloom Time
May,
June,
July Bloom Color
White Seasonality
Fall,
Spring,
Summer,
Winter Sociability
Individuals, Groups up to 5 Other Notable Cultivars & Varieties
Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle'