Smooth hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens)

©Photo by Mike Homoya
©Photo by Paul E. Rothrock

Kemper Code: K520

Common Name: smooth hydrangea
Zone: 3 to 9
Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
Family: Hydrangeaceae
Missouri Native: Yes
Native Range: Eastern United States
Height: 3 to 5 feet
Spread: 3 to 5 feet
Bloom Time: June - September Bloom Data
Bloom Color: White
Sun: Part shade
Water: Medium
Maintenance: Low

Best grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soil in part shade. Tolerates full sun in the northern part of its range, but needs constant moisture. Intolerant of drought, with foliage tending to become significantly less attractive in dryish conditions. If left alone, this Hydrangea can become somewhat weedy in appearance and can spread rapidly by root suckers to form colonies. Blooms on new wood, and in cold winter climates, it is perhaps best grown as an herbaceous perennial (e.g., cut back to 1-2' from the ground in late winter).