University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension - Selecting Shrubs for Your Home
http://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/shrubselector
Smooth Hydrangea
Hydrangea arborescens
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Smooth Hydrangea form
Size:
Size: small
Small

Medium

Large
Exposure/ Light Requirements:
Full Shade required.
Full Shade
Full Sun required.
Full Sun
Partial Sun/Shade required.
Partial Sun/Shade
Hardiness Zone: 4 - 9 
Mature Height: 3-5 Feet
Mature Width: 3-5 Feet
Features: Large clusters of white flowers, early to mid-summer; yellow autumn color may develop, but is not reliable.
Culture: Best in partial (to full) shade, but will tolerate full sun if watered regularly; moist, well-drained soil is preferred; tolerates alkaline soils.
Cultivars:
  • 'Annabelle' - Large white flower clusters (up to 1 foot across).
Mature Form: Rounded
Native To: United States (and Illinois)
Soil Conditions:
Dry
Soil condition: Moist, Well-DrainedMoist, Well-Drained
Wet
Tolerance:
Tolerance: Alkaline SoilAlkaline Soil
Dry Sites
Tolerance: SaltSalt
Soil Compaction
Wet Sites
Wind
Uses:
Barrier
Use for: Border.Border
Use for: Foundation.Foundation
Hedge
Use for: Massing.Massing
Naturalizing
Screen
Use for: Specimen.Specimen
Foliage Color: Green
 
Fall Foliage Color: Green
Yellow
 
Additional Notes: This shrub often dies back to the ground in northern climates. This does not affect flowering as the shrub flowers on new growth produce in spring.