Deciduous Shrub – Smooth Hydrangea

Smooth Hydrangea 

Botanical name: hydrangea arborescens 

Beginner friendly?: yes

Average size at maturity: 3-10 ft in height with a 3-5 ft spread 

Hardy zone: zones 3-9 

Growth rate: grows 1-2 ft per year 

Foliage color: green 

Flower color: white, purple 

Bloom time:  summer 

Pruning instructions: prune to maintain desired shape and size during dormancy in the late winter/early spring 

Propagation methods: propagate with cuttings during the spring and summer months 

Landscape use: shade garden, borders, focal point 

Special features: deer resistant, cold-hardy, disease resistant 

Light needs: no more than 4 hours of sun per day 

Watering instructions: keep soil consistently moist but not soggy 

Fertilizing instructions : use a liquid fertilizer once a month throughout the spring season

Best time to plant: spring, fall 

Best type of soil:  loam, sand 

Companion plants: hostas, fern, astilbe 

Toxicity level: toxic for humans and pets if ingested 

Invasive species: no