Shrub to 2 m (6 ft). Twigs glabrous, smooth, loose and peeling on older stems. Leaves opposite, ovate, acuminate, coarsely serrate, 6-18 cm (2.4-7 in) long and 4-12 cm (1.6-4.7 in) wide, somewhat rough above, glabrous or hairy below. Inflorescence a compound cyme 4-15 cm (1.6-6 in) across. Fertile flowers small, numerous, white. Sterile flowers consist of a persistent broad flat greenish-yellow calyx 1-3 cm (0.4-1.2 in) wide. Fruits numerous ribbed brown capsules about 2 mm (0.1 in) long.
Distribution: Native to about the eastern third of the U. S.
Habitat: Usually the richer and damper parts of the Eastern Deciduous Forest.
NWI status: Not listed for Region 6. FACU, UPL in other regions.
Comment: Hydrangea is derived from a Greek phrase meaning "water vessel", from the cuplike fruits; arborescens refers to the plant's resemblance to a small tree.
Distribution in Oklahoma: 
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Last update: 9/10/99
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