The Dawes Arboretum

Common name: Riven Lace smooth hydrangea

Family: Hydrangeaceae (hydrangea family)

Synonym: Hydrangea arborescens 'Emerald Lace', Hydrangea arborescens 'Green Dragon'

Distribution: Species native to e. United States

Hardiness: USDA Zone 4

Life form: Deciduous shrub/Subshrub

Comments: An unusual deciduous flowering shrub with dark green leaves that are deeply cut into claw-like shapes. They cover the stout, smooth, shiny brown upright stems and provide a neat, clean appearance. Clusters of fertile flowers are surrounded by showy white sterile flowers creating a crown-like appearance. This plant grows 4' tall and 5' wide. It is easily rejuvenated in late winter, early spring and still enjoy flowers that same year. Excellent in the shrub border, as an accent or in foundation planting.