Origin
Hydrangea arborescens L. ssp. discolor (Ser. ex DC.) McClintock is a deciduous shrub species native to the United States. It is commonly found in the eastern and central regions of the country, including areas such as Missouri, Oklahoma, and Arkansas.
Common Names
Hydrangea arborescens L. ssp. discolor is commonly referred to as smooth hydrangea or wild hydrangea due to its smooth stems and leaves. It may also be called seven bark due to the plant's ability to shed its outer bark layer in thin sheets.
Uses
Hydrangea arborescens L. ssp. discolor has a variety of uses, including ornamental, medicinal, and ceremonial purposes. The plant's large, showy flowers make it a popular choice for landscaping and horticulture. The dried root of the plant has also been used in traditional medicine to treat conditions such as kidney stones. The Cherokee people have used the plant in their traditional Green Corn Ceremony, where it is believed to have cleansing and purifying properties.
General Appearance
Hydrangea arborescens L. ssp. discolor is a multi-stemmed shrub that typically grows to a height of 3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters) and a spread of 2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters). The plant features smooth stems, simple leaves, and large, showy flowerheads that bloom in the summer. The flowers range in color from white to pink and are comprised of both fertile and sterile flowers. The plant's deciduous leaves are ovate with serrated margins and can grow up to 8 inches (20 centimeters) long.
Light Requirements
Hydrangea arborescens L. ssp. discolor grows best in partial sun to partial shade. It can tolerate full sun in cool and humid environments but might require some shade in hot and dry regions.
Temperature Requirements
Hydrangea arborescens L. ssp. discolor thrives in USDA zones 3 to 9, which implies that it can withstand temperatures ranging between -40? to 30?. Its optimal temperature range is from 60? to 70?, but it can also grow in temperatures as low as 45?.
Soil Requirements
Hydrangea arborescens L. ssp. discolor requires well-drained, moderately fertile, and slightly acidic soils. The pH level should be between 5.2-6.5 to promote healthy growth. It prefers soils with high organic matter content but can survive in sandy soils as long as they are well-drained. Direct contact with tap water or salty water should be avoided to prevent root damage.
Cultivation Methods
Hydrangea arborescens L. ssp. discolor is a hardy plant that grows well in partial sun or shade. It prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It is important to ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Mulching around the base of the plant can help to conserve moisture in the soil.
Watering Needs
Hydrangea arborescens L. ssp. discolor requires regular watering to ensure good growth. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during hot, dry weather. Watering should be done in the morning or late afternoon to prevent evaporation and ensure adequate absorption by the roots.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential to maintain healthy growth and promote flowering in Hydrangea arborescens L. ssp. discolor. A balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 is preferred, applied in early spring and mid-summer. Organic fertilizers such as compost or well-rotted manure are also beneficial and can be applied in the fall.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and size of Hydrangea arborescens L. ssp. discolor. It is recommended to prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Dead, damaged, or diseased branches should be removed, as well as any crossing or rubbing branches. The plant can be cut back to about 6-12 inches from the ground to encourage fuller growth and larger flowers.
Propagation of Hydrangea arborescens L. ssp. discolor (Ser. ex DC.) McClintock
Hydrangea arborescens L. ssp. discolor, commonly known as the smooth hydrangea or wild hydrangea, is a deciduous shrub that is native to the eastern United States. The shrub is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes due to its attractive foliage and flowers. Propagation of the plant can be achieved by several methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Hydrangea arborescens L. ssp. discolor through seeds is possible, although it can be a slow process. Seeds should be harvested from the plant when they are fully mature, which is typically in the fall. The seeds should be immediately sown in a well-draining seed-starting mix and kept moist. Germination may take several weeks to a couple of months.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation through cuttings is the most common and easiest method of propagation for H. arborescens L. ssp. discolor. Cuttings should be taken from new growth in the early summer. The cutting should be about 4-6 inches long and have several sets of leaves. The bottom set of leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be placed into a well-draining rooting medium. The cutting should be kept moist and in a humid environment until roots have formed, which can take a few weeks to a couple of months.
Division Propagation
Hydrangea arborescens L. ssp. discolor can also be propagated through division. This method involves digging up an established plant and separating it into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one stem and root system. The sections should be replanted and kept well-watered until they establish new roots and begin to grow new leaves.
Disease and Pest Management for Hydrangea arborescens L. ssp. discolor (Ser. ex DC.) McClintock
Hydrangea arborescens L. ssp. discolor (Ser. ex DC.) McClintock, commonly known as the smooth hydrangea, is a deciduous shrub that produces beautiful white flowers. However, certain diseases and pests can affect the plant and cause damage, reducing its overall health and beauty.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect the smooth hydrangea is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to remove and dispose of any infected plant material. Additionally, keeping the plant well-watered and in a location with good air circulation can help prevent the spread of the disease.
Another disease that can affect the smooth hydrangea is leaf spot. This fungal disease causes brown spots to form on the leaves, which can eventually cause them to drop off the plant. To manage leaf spot, it is important to keep the plant well-watered, but avoid getting the leaves wet. Additionally, removing any fallen leaves and disposing of them can help prevent the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
The smooth hydrangea can also be affected by several pests, including spider mites and aphids. Spider mites are tiny, spider-like pests that can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves, as well as the formation of webs. To manage spider mites, it is important to regularly spray the plant with a strong stream of water, or use an insecticidal soap.
Aphids are another common pest that can affect the smooth hydrangea. These tiny insects feed on the sap of the plant, and can cause distortion and discoloration of the leaves. To manage aphids, it is important to regularly inspect the plant and remove any infested leaves or stems. Additionally, using an insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control the population of aphids.
Overall, by being aware of these common diseases and pests that can affect the smooth hydrangea, and by taking proactive measures to manage them, you can help ensure that your plant remains healthy and beautiful for years to come.
