Hydrangea arborescens
'Dardom'
Dardom Hyrdrangea, White Dome Hydrangea
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Most common and showiest of the hydrangeas found in most garden centres. Easily grown in moist, loamy soil with partial shade, but can also tolerate less than perfect conditions. Blooms are formed on all new growth therefore best results come from pruning to the ground in the spring. The corymbs are creamy-white and can be as large as 20 cm in diameter, blooming in July - August. Also looks nice through the winter because of the dried, light brown flower panicles which are popularly used for dried flower arrangements. This is a beautiful shrub adding elegance to the garden with low maintenance, a bonus.
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Family |
Hydrangeaceae (Saxifragaceae) |
Genus |
Hydrangea |
Species |
arborescens |
Cultivar |
'Dardom' |
Category |
Woody |
Type |
Shrub (deciduous) |
Synonyms |
Hydrangea arborescens 'White Dome' |
Patent Number |
pp#14,168 |
Pronunciation |
USDA Hardiness Zone |
3-9 |
Canadian Hardiness Zone |
2-8 |
RHS Hardiness Zone |
H7 |
Temperature (°C) |
-35 |
Temperature (°F) |
-37 |
Height |
2 m |
Spread |
2 m |
General Description |
One of the showiest hydrangeas that is easy to grow. The white flowers can get as big as 20 cm in diameter, adding elegance to the garden. Blooms are produced on new growth, therefore the plant can be pruned to the ground in early spring. |
Landscape |
This shrub should be placed in an area with partial shade and well-drained soil. Some people use it as a hedge, some in corners or along fences. No matter what the landscape need, it is a beautiful and sturdy plant with massive clusters of white flowers. It is fast-growing and low maintenance. |
Cultivation |
Optimal growth occurs when placed in humus rich soil with good drainage in partial sun/shade. Sheltered locations are ideal away from wind. Prefers soil conditions to be acidic to neutral. (pH level of 5.6 – 7.5) |
Shape |
Loose rounded to mounding form. |
Growth |
Fast |
ID Characteristic |
Identified by it’s very large heads of creamy-white corymbs (flowers) that bloom in summer to early autumn and make wonderful dried blooms in the winter. This shrub is round in form with dark green, serrate leaves. |
Pests |
Generally few pests or diseases. Mildew, phytophthora (root rot) and botrytis (grey mold) can be a problem for plants in wet soil and humid conditions. Leaf spots, ring spot virus and slugs or snails may be a problem. |
Habitat |
Horticultural origin. |
Bark/Stem Description |
Smooth green. |
Flower/Leaf Bud Description |
Small, 2-5 mm, greenish brown with striate scales. |
Leaf Description |
Dark green, simple opposite leaf arrangement with serrate margins. The Petiole is 2.5-7.5 cm long. The leaf dimensions are 5-20 cm long by 5-15 cm wide, with acuminate apices and cordate bases. |
Flower Description |
Large clusters of creamy-white sterile corymbs which become heavy and can fall over. Can be as big as 20 cm in diameter. Blooms open green, turn white for 2-3 weeks and gradually fade to green and tan. |
Fruit Description |
A sterile plant that produces no fruit. |
Colour Description |
Dark green leaves with creamy-white flowers. |
Texture Description |
Matt leaves with coarse texture. |
Notable Specimens |
The A.M. Cuddy Gardens, Strathroy, Ontario, Canada. |
Propagation |
Fairly easy to root. Take a cutting 10-13 cm long from new growth. Take off the lower leaves and make a slit just below a node. Place in a suitable potting mix and keep moist. Cover with a clear bag to keep moisture in. |