What is a wild Hydrangea?

The wild hydrangea, or hydrangea arborescens, is a deciduous shrub that is native to the eastern United States. The shrub is characterized by clusters of small white flowers that bloom May through July. The wild hydrangea, also known as a smooth hydrangea, grows 3 to 6 feet tall.

The natural habitat of the wild hydrangea is wooded and rocky slopes, stream banks and ravines from New York to Florida. The leaves of a wild hydrangea vary from rounded to egg-shaped and are sharp-toothed with dark green pigments and a light green underside. Wild hydrangeas prefer a partial sun environment, making them a popular plant in perennial gardens.