Hydrangea arborescens
TAXONOMY
FamilyHydrangeaceae
GenusHydrangea
Zone3
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Hydrangea arborescens, commonly known as smooth hydrangea or wild hydrangea, is a deciduous shrub native to the eastern United States. It typically grows in moist, wooded areas and is known for its large, showy flower clusters that bloom in summer. The plant goes dormant in winter, shedding its leaves and conserving energy for the next growing season.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Schneeball
Schneeball-Hortensie
Sevenbark
Wald-Hortensie
Hydrangea acuta
Hydrangea amplifolia
Hydrangea arborescens f. arborescens
Hydrangea arborescens subsp. arborescens
Hydrangea arborescens var. arborescens
Hydrangea arborescens var. australis
Hydrangea arborescens var. cordata
Hydrangea arborescens var. grandiflora
Hydrangea arborescens var. kanawhana
Hydrangea arborescens var. oblonga
Hydrangea arborescens var. sterilis
Hydrangea cordata
Hydrangea heterophylla
Hydrangea urticifolia
Hydrangea vulgaris var. carnea
Hydrangea vulgaris var. cordata
Smooth hydrangea
Wild hydrangea
OVERVIEW
WaterWet
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy3 Months
pH5.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Smooth hydrangeas thrive in temperate climates with moderate temperatures. They prefer bright, indirect light and should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Maintaining a humid environment will help the plant flourish. Pruning is necessary to encourage healthy growth and abundant flowering.Soil
Hydrangea arborescens prefers well-draining loamy soil that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged. The soil should be rich in organic matter to provide the necessary nutrients for growth. A slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal for this plant.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant in early spring and again in mid-summer to support its growth and flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.Repotting
Repotting is generally not necessary for outdoor hydrangeas, but if grown in containers, repot every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide more space for root growth. Repot in early spring before new growth begins.Propagation
Hydrangea arborescens can be propagated through softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the cuttings moist and in a bright, indirect light until roots develop.Pruning
Prune smooth hydrangeas in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Remove any dead or damaged wood and cut back the stems to encourage new growth and more abundant flowering. Regular pruning helps maintain the plant's shape and size.Toxicity
Hydrangea arborescens is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. All parts of the plant contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Keep the plant out of reach of pets and children.Additional
To enhance flowering, consider mulching around the base of the plant to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. Additionally, hydrangeas benefit from regular deadheading to remove spent flowers and encourage new blooms.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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