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Description
Hydrangea Arborescens, also known as Smooth Hydrangea, is a deciduous shrub native to the eastern United States. It belongs to the Hydrangeaceae family and is a popular ornamental plant in gardens due to its stunning appearance and ease of cultivation.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Hydrangeaceae |
| Genus | Hydrangea |
Appearance
Hydrangea Arborescens grows up to 5 feet tall and 6 feet wide, with a rounded shape. Its leaves are dark green, oval-shaped, and have a pointed tip. The flowers are large, white, and bloom in late spring to early summer. They are composed of numerous small, fertile flowers surrounded by larger, sterile flowers, which give the flower clusters a full and fluffy appearance. The flowers turn green and eventually brown as they age. In the fall, the leaves turn yellow and drop off.
Care Guide
Hydrangea Arborescens is easy to care for and requires moderate maintenance. Here are some care tips:- Water: Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Fertilize in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer or compost.- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil with a pH between 5.0 and 6.5.- Sunlight: Plant in partial shade to full sun.- Hardiness Zones: Hydrangea Arborescens is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hydrangea Arborescens is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by:- Powdery mildew: A fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves.- Leaf spot: A fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves.- Aphids: Small insects that suck sap from the leaves and can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves.- Spider mites: Tiny mites that spin webs on the leaves and can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves.
Habitat
Hydrangea Arborescens grows naturally in wooded areas, along streams and rivers, and in damp meadows in the eastern United States. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: When is the best time to prune Hydrangea Arborescens?
A: You can prune Hydrangea Arborescens in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: Can Hydrangea Arborescens grow in full sun?
A: Yes, Hydrangea Arborescens can grow in full sun, but it prefers partial shade.
Q: How often should I fertilize Hydrangea Arborescens?
A: Fertilize once a year in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer or compost.
Q: Can I grow Hydrangea Arborescens in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Hydrangea Arborescens in a container, but make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Related Plants
– Hydrangea Paniculata- Hydrangea Quercifolia- Hydrangea Macrophylla- Hydrangea Serrata
References
– “Hydrangea arborescens.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c950- “Hydrangea arborescens (Smooth Hydrangea).” Gardenia.net. https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/hydrangea-arborescens-smooth-hydrangea
