Create Your Garden

Hydrangea arborescens (Smooth Hydrangea)

Smooth Hydrangea, Wild Hydrangea

Hydrangea Arborescens,  Smooth Hydrangea, Wild Hydrangea, Annabelle Hydrangea, Invincibelle Hydrangea, Hardy Hydrangea, White hydrangea, Pink Hydrangea, Green Hydrangea
hydrangea arborescens, Smooth hydrangea

Native to the Eastern United States, Hydrangea arborescens (Smooth Hydrangea) is a widely branched deciduous shrub acclaimed for its creamy-white flower clusters, which brighten shady areas and bring life to the garden.

This hydrangea is a member of the Hydrangeaceae family, which includes several popular garden varieties like Hydrangea macrophylla (Bigleaf Hydrangea), Hydrangea paniculata (Panicle Hydrangea)Hydrangea quercifolia (Oakleaf Hydrangea), Hydrangea serrata (Mountain Hydrangea), and Hydrangea anomala petiolaris (Climbing Hydrangea)

What is Hydrangea arborescens?

Hydrangea arborescens, also known as Smooth Hydrangea or Wild Hydrangea, is a deciduous shrub native to the United States, specifically in the eastern and southern regions.

Habit and Size: It typically grows in a rounded habit to 3-6 feet (90-180 cm) tall and as wide. The stems of the plant are quite sturdy, allowing it to maintain its shape. The bark is thin and gray-brown, often exfoliating in thin strips on mature stems.

Flowers and Blooming Season: It boasts domed to nearly rounded blossoms, which open lime-green and change to brilliant creamy white before switching to a tan shade in the fall. Unlike many other hydrangeas, the flower color of Hydrangea arborescens is not affected by soil pH.

Foliage: The dark green leaves of this hydrangea are broad, egg-shaped, and sharply toothed. They turn butter-yellow shades in fall, extending the season of interest of this magnificent flowering shrub.

Blooming Season: Hydrangea arborescens typically flowers from early summer to early fall, with the exact timing depending on local conditions and the specific variety.

Hardiness: It’s hardy in USDA zones 3-8, making it adaptable to a wide range of climates. It’s more heat and cold tolerant than other hydrangea types.

Uses: This hydrangea is perfect for mixed borders with companion plants, as a flowering hedge, or in mass plantings for stunning visual impact. It is also suitable for small gardens and patio containers. The blooms also make excellent cut flowers, adding elegance to floral arrangements. They can also be dried and preserved for use in wreaths and home decor, allowing you to enjoy their beauty year-round.

Pollinators: The flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. Songbirds eat the seeds.

Toxicity: All parts of the plant are considered poisonous if ingested due to the presence of hydrangin, a cyanogenic glycoside. It’s generally safe for humans to handle, but ingestion can cause discomfort. Hydrangea is considered toxic to pets, including dogs and cats.

Deer and Rabbit: Hydrangea plants are not reliably deer-resistant, so protective measures may be necessary if deer are common in your area. Rabbits may also nibble on the plant.

Annabelle Hydrangea, White Hydrangea, Hydrangea arborescens, Smooth HydrangeaAnnabelle Hydrangea – Hydrangea arborescens or Smooth Hydrangea

Why Should I Grow Hydrangea arborescens?

There are many reasons why Hydrangea arborescens, or Smooth Hydrangea, is a worthy addition to your garden. Here are some key reasons to consider:

Versatility: With its compact size and rounded growth habit, Hydrangea arborescens fits well in a variety of garden spaces. It works beautifully in borders, woodland gardens, or as a standalone specimen.

Stunning Blooms: This hydrangea is known for its spectacular clusters of creamy white flowers, which can create a stunning visual impact in your garden from early summer to early fall. The cultivars ‘Annabelle‘ and ‘Incrediball‘ are particularly impressive with their large, spherical blooms.

Tolerance and Hardiness: Hydrangea arborescens is more cold and heat tolerant than many other hydrangea species, making it a good choice for gardens in a range of climates.

Native Species: As a native plant of the United States, it can be an excellent choice for a wildlife or native garden. It’s adapted to local growing conditions and provides habitat and food for local wildlife.

Soil pH Adaptability: Unlike some other hydrangeas, the color of Hydrangea arborescens blooms is not affected by soil pH, reducing the need for soil amendments.

Pollinator Attraction: The flowers of Hydrangea arborescens attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, promoting biodiversity in your garden.

Ease of Care: This plant is relatively easy to care for, with no significant disease or pest issues. It’s also tolerant of heavy pruning, allowing you to easily control its size and shape.

Guide Information

Hardiness 3 - 8
Heat Zones 1 - 9
Climate Zones 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, A3
Plant Type Shrubs
Plant Family Hydrangeaceae
Genus Hydrangea
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall
Height 3' - 6' (90cm - 180cm)
Spread 3' - 6' (90cm - 180cm)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Average
Soil Type Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained
Characteristics Dried Arrangements, Cut Flowers, Showy
Native Plants United States, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Maryland, Delaware, Connecticut, Northeast, Midwest, Southwest, Southeast, Missouri, Indiana, Illinois, Kansas, Ohio, Mississippi, West Virginia, Tennessee, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, Florida, Louisiana, Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Oklahoma
Tolerance Salt
Attracts Bees, Butterflies
Landscaping Ideas Patio And Containers, Hedges And Screens, Beds And Borders
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden

Favorite Hydrangea arborescens Cultivars

Find the Perfect Hydrangea for Your Garden

Garden Design With Hydrangea arborescens

Hydrangea arborescens, or Smooth Hydrangea, can play a versatile role in garden design due to its stunning blooms, rounded form, and compact size. Here are some design ideas incorporating this plant:

Mixed Borders: Incorporate H. arborescens in mixed borders along with other flowering shrubs, perennials, and ornamental grasses. Its mid-sized stature makes it suitable for the middle or back of a border, depending on the size of your border.

Woodland Gardens: Because this plant is native to woodlands, it can be a great addition to a woodland garden design. Pair it with shade-tolerant woodland plants like ferns, hostas, and astilbes.

Accent or Specimen Plant: The impressive flowers, particularly the ‘Annabelle’ variety, make it an excellent choice for a specimen or accent plant. Use it as a focal point in a garden bed or at a corner of your house.

Hedge or Mass Planting: Plant several H. arborescens together to create a low hedge or a mass planting. This can be particularly effective along a driveway, fence, or property boundary.

Container Plantings: Smaller cultivars can be grown in large pots or containers, making them suitable for patios or small gardens.

Cut Flower Gardens: The flowers are excellent for cutting and can be used in fresh or dried arrangements. Consider adding this plant to a cut flower garden.

Wildlife Gardens: As a native shrub, H. arborescens can be a great addition to a wildlife-friendly garden. Its flowers attract bees, butterflies, and birds.

Remember to consider companion plants that complement the hydrangea’s growing conditions and aesthetic. Perennials that bloom at different times can extend the flowering season, while contrasting textures or colors can create visual interest.

Discover Great Garden Ideas with Hydrangea Plants

Great Companion Plants for Hydrangea arborescens

Hosta (Plantain Lily)
Athyrium (Lady Fern)
Astilbe
Japanese Anemones
Heuchera (Coral Bells)
Pulmonaria (Lungwort)
Dicentra (Bleeding Heart)
Azalea and Rhododendron
Hakonechloa macra (Hakone Grass)

Hydrangea Care

Growing Hydrangea arborescens, or Smooth Hydrangea, is relatively straightforward. Here are some steps to guide you:

Select the Right Location: Hydrangea arborescens prefers partial shade, but it can tolerate full sun if it’s given enough moisture. A spot with morning sun and afternoon shade is often ideal. It can grow in full shade but might produce fewer flowers.

Prepare the Soil: This hydrangea prefers rich, well-draining soil. Amend your soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve its fertility and drainage if needed. Unlike some other hydrangeas, the soil pH does not affect the flower color.

Planting: Dig a hole that’s about twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball of your plant. Place the plant in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the surrounding soil. Backfill with the excavated soil, firming it gently around the root ball.

Watering: After planting, water thoroughly. Hydrangea arborescens likes consistent moisture, so water regularly, especially during dry periods. However, avoid waterlogging the soil.

Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Cut back last year’s growth to about 12-18 inches to promote larger flower clusters. Learn how to prune your hydrangea to maximize flower production.

Fertilizing: Use a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring as new growth begins. Fertilize again in mid-summer to support ongoing blooming. Everything you need to know about fertilizing hydrangeas.

Pest and Disease Management: Keep an eye out for common hydrangea pests like aphids and spider mites. Powdery mildew can also be an issue. Most of these can be managed with regular observation and appropriate treatments as needed.

Propagation: Can be propagated through cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Use stem cuttings with at least two nodes and root in moist potting soil. Discover how to propagate your hydrangea for more beautiful blooms.

Pests and Diseases: Watch for pests like aphids and spider mites. Powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot can occur in humid conditions. Regular monitoring and proper care can mitigate these issues. Popular pests and diseases affecting hydrangea plants.

Hydrangea companion plants. Annabelle Hydrangea, Smooth Hydrangea

Frequently Asked Questions

Hydrangea arborescens bloom time?

Hydrangea arborescens typically blooms from late spring to early summer, usually starting in June and lasting through August. The flowering period can extend into early fall if conditions are favorable.

Growth rate of hydrangea arborescens?

Hydrangea arborescens is considered to have a moderate growth rate, typically growing about 1 to 2 feet (0.3 to 0.6 meters) per year under optimal conditions. They generally reach their full height within 3 to 5 years.

Hydrangea arborescens: where to plant?

Hydrangea arborescens thrives in well-drained, loamy soil and can tolerate a variety of soil types, including clay and sandy soils. Choose a location that offers partial to full sun for optimal blooming.

How far apart to plant hydrangea arborescens?

When planting Hydrangea arborescens, it’s best to space them about 3 to 4 feet (0.9 to 1.2 meters) apart. This allows for proper air circulation and room for their natural growth habit.

Hydrangea arborescens: sun or shade?

Hydrangea arborescens prefers partial sun to full shade. Ideally, they should receive at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight each day. However, in hotter climates, providing some afternoon shade can help prevent leaf scorch and ensure healthier plants.

Garden Examples

A Charming Plant Combination for Shady Gardens: Hydrangea, Japanese Maple and Boxwood
An Elegant Summer Garden Idea with Hydrangea, Rose and Astilbe
A Prairie Style Garden Idea with Echinacea, Veronicastrum and Sedum

Recommended Guides

Hydrangea Types – How to Select the Right One?
Hydrangea: Plant Care and Growing Guide
Beautiful Hydrangeas for the Lower South Region
Beautiful Hydrangeas for the Middle South Region
Beautiful Hydrangeas for the Upper South Region
Beautiful Hydrangeas for the Pacific Northwest Region
Beautiful Hydrangeas for New England
Beautiful Hydrangeas for the Mid-Atlantic Region
Beautiful Hydrangeas for the Coastal South Region
While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.

Guide Information

Hardiness 3 - 8
Heat Zones 1 - 9
Climate Zones 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, A3
Plant Type Shrubs
Plant Family Hydrangeaceae
Genus Hydrangea
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall
Height 3' - 6' (90cm - 180cm)
Spread 3' - 6' (90cm - 180cm)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Average
Soil Type Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained
Characteristics Dried Arrangements, Cut Flowers, Showy
Native Plants United States, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Maryland, Delaware, Connecticut, Northeast, Midwest, Southwest, Southeast, Missouri, Indiana, Illinois, Kansas, Ohio, Mississippi, West Virginia, Tennessee, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, Florida, Louisiana, Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Oklahoma
Tolerance Salt
Attracts Bees, Butterflies
Landscaping Ideas Patio And Containers, Hedges And Screens, Beds And Borders
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden
Compare All Hydrangea
Compare Now
Explore Great Plant Combination Ideas
Hydrangea
Guides with
Hydrangea

Related Items

Please Login to Proceed

You Have Reached The Free Limit, Please Subscribe to Proceed

Subscribe to Gardenia

To create additional collections, you must be a paid member of Gardenia
  • Add as many plants as you wish
  • Create and save up to 25 garden collections
Become a Member

Plant Added Successfully

You have Reached Your Limit

To add more plants, you must be a paid member of our site Become a Member

Update Your Credit
Card Information

Cancel

Create a New Collection

Sign Up to Our Newsletter

    You have been subscribed successfully

    Join Gardenia.net

    Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.

    Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.

    Join now and start creating your dream garden!

    Join Gardenia.net

    Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.

    Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.

    Join now and start creating your dream garden!

    Find your Hardiness Zone

    Find your Heat Zone

    Find your Climate Zone