Family: Hydrangeaceae

These free-flowering, hardy, deciduous shrubs are mostly native to Japan, China, temperate Central America and the Philippines. The leaves are dull green, pointed and slightly rough. The bark of mature species is brown and peeling. White to pink, starry flowers are pro­duced in spring or early summer. Many are fra­grant. Hybrids adaptable to various situations have been raised.

Species

D. gracilis, Japanese snowflower, zone 4, is one of the most popular species, growing to about 1 m (3 ft). Tight clusters of pure white, papery flowers cover the entire plant when in bloom.

D. longifolia 'Veitchii', zone 6, grows to 2 m (6 ft), with pointed leaves, whitish on the undersides, and purplish rose buds, open­ing to pink flowers.

D. x magnifica, zone 5, a hybrid growing to 2 m (6 ft), has pure white, double flowers.

D. scabra, zone 5, has an erect growth habit to 3 m (10 ft) and pinkish white flowers. Cultivars include 'Candidissima', with double, white flowers and 'Pride of Rochester', with double, white flowers, the outside petals flushed with rosy purple.

Cultivation

Deutzia species can be grown in most soils and can tolerate partial shade and severe cold. Propagate from cuttings taken in autumn or winter. These shrubs transplant easily as they are dormant in winter, though the tops may need to be trimmed. Prune annually after flowering by cutting back old flowered shoots to new shoots lower down. Remove some of the oldest wood completely.

Climate

There are species suited to various climatic zones.