Variety traits
Hydrangea arborescens L.
The inflorescence of the smooth hydrangea is a corymbose structure, the diameter of which is a key ornamental trait of the crop. In wild forms, it ranges from 4 to 14 cm, while in cultivars it reaches 20–35 cm.
In the reference 47 varieties crop Smooth hydrangea, where this is mentioned in the description.
The Hydrangea arborescens inflorescence is botanically classified as a corymb, which may be hemispherical or dome-shaped. In wild forms, the structure resembles a "lacecap" with fertile flowers in the center and a few sterile ones along the margin. In most cultivated varieties, the inflorescences are dense, globose structures consisting primarily of sterile flowers.
The primary parameter for evaluating the inflorescence is its diameter, measured in centimeters. Values of 20–30 cm and above are considered high and provide ornamental value, whereas measurements below 15 cm are characteristic of wild forms. The size of the inflorescences is directly dependent on the level of agrotechnology, including adequate moisture during the budding period.
Large and heavy inflorescences often create a risk of stem lodging, especially under adverse weather conditions. Annual pruning is necessary to form inflorescences of the required size, as Hydrangea arborescens blooms on current-year shoots. Excessively heavy pruning contributes to an increase in inflorescence size but reduces the overall stem strength of the shrub.
General information about the subject — on the page Inflorescence.
Selection based on the description text, not on official evaluation: these data are absent from registers. For specific variety details, please refer to its profile.
Hydrangea arborescens L. · Smooth hydrangea
Information regarding the breeder received in the contribution to CPVO :Dirr M.
Hydrangea arborescens L. · Smooth hydrangea
Information regarding the breeder received in the contribution to CPVO :Griffith G. & Dean E.