Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Hydrangeaceae |
| Genus | Hydrangea |
Description
Hydrangea Viburnoides, also known as the Smooth Hydrangea or the Wild Hydrangea, is a deciduous shrub that is native to the eastern United States. It can reach a height of up to 8 feet and a width of up to 10 feet, making it a great choice for adding structure and volume to a garden or landscape. The plant is known for its large, white flowers that bloom in late spring or early summer, and its green leaves that turn a beautiful shade of red in the fall.
Appearance
The leaves of the Hydrangea Viburnoides are ovate and serrated, and can grow up to 6 inches long. The flowers are arranged in large, flat-topped clusters that can be up to 6 inches wide. They are made up of small, white, fertile flowers in the center, surrounded by larger, sterile flowers on the outside. The plant’s bark is brown and peels off in strips, revealing a lighter brown layer underneath. Overall, the Hydrangea Viburnoides has a very natural and rustic appearance, making it a popular choice for cottage gardens and other informal landscapes.
Care Guide
The Hydrangea Viburnoides is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping it healthy and thriving:
Water
Hydrangea Viburnoides prefers moist soil, so be sure to water it regularly during dry spells. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer that is high in phosphorus. This will help promote healthy root growth and encourage the plant to produce more flowers.
Soil
The Hydrangea Viburnoides prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with compost or other organic material to improve drainage.
Sunlight
The Hydrangea Viburnoides prefers partial shade to full sun. However, it can tolerate full shade as well, making it a great choice for woodland gardens.
Hardiness Zones
The Hydrangea Viburnoides is hardy in zones 3-9, making it a great choice for a wide range of climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Hydrangea Viburnoides is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions. To prevent powdery mildew, be sure to provide good air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
The Hydrangea Viburnoides is native to the eastern United States, where it can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including woodland edges, stream banks, and rocky slopes. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade, but can tolerate a wide range of conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Hydrangea Viburnoides be grown in containers?
A: While the Hydrangea Viburnoides can be grown in containers, it is best suited for planting in the ground, where it can reach its full size and potential.
Q: When is the best time to prune the Hydrangea Viburnoides?
A: The best time to prune the Hydrangea Viburnoides is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. This will help promote healthy growth and flowering.
Q: Does the Hydrangea Viburnoides attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the Hydrangea Viburnoides is a great choice for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies, thanks to its large, showy flowers.
Q: Can the Hydrangea Viburnoides be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the Hydrangea Viburnoides can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in early summer. Simply remove a 4- to 6-inch cutting from the tip of a stem, remove the leaves from the bottom half, dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and plant it in a pot filled with moist potting soil. Keep the cutting in a warm, bright location and mist it regularly until roots develop.
Related Plants
- Hydrangea arborescens (Smooth Hydrangea)
- Hydrangea paniculata (Panicled Hydrangea)
- Hydrangea quercifolia (Oakleaf Hydrangea)
- Hydrangea macrophylla (Bigleaf Hydrangea)
References
- “Hydrangea arborescens.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 24 September 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d800.
- “Hydrangea Viburnoides.” Monrovia. Accessed 24 September 2021. https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/2859/wild-hydrangea/.
- “Hydrangea Viburnoides.” Plant Database. Accessed 24 September 2021. https://www.plantsgalore.com/plants/view/1784/Hydrangea-Viburnoides.
