Hydrangea arborescens 'Dardom' (Dardom Hyrdrangea, White Dome Hydrangea)

Michael's Opinion

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.

Botanical Information

FamilyHydrangeaceae (Saxifragaceae)
GenusHydrangea
Speciesarborescens
Cultivar'Dardom'
SynonymsHydrangea arborescens 'White Dome'
Patent Numberpp#14,168
CategoryWoody
TypeShrub (deciduous)
OriginDeveloped by Darthuizer Nursery, The Netherlands.
Pronunciation

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone3-9
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone2-8
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH7
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-35
Temperature (°F)-37
Height2 m
Spread2 m
GrowthFast
Flowering PeriodJune

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionOne 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.
ID CharacteristicIdentified 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.
ShapeLoose rounded to mounding form.
LandscapeThis 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.
PropagationFairly 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.
CultivationOptimal 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)
PestsGenerally 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.
Notable SpecimensThe A.M. Cuddy Gardens, Strathroy, Ontario, Canada.
HabitatHorticultural origin.
Bark/Stem DescriptionSmooth green.
Flower/Leaf Bud DescriptionSmall, 2-5 mm, greenish brown with striate scales.
Leaf DescriptionDark 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 DescriptionLarge 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 DescriptionA sterile plant that produces no fruit.
Colour DescriptionDark green leaves with creamy-white flowers.
Texture DescriptionMatt leaves with coarse texture.

Photographs