Dichroa Febrifuga

Hydrangea-like foliage that stays green all year long (Zone 8-9, that is)I acquired this specimen from our wonderful Portland Classical Chinese Garden. It's been a vigorous healthy grower in part sun with blue blooms in the early summer and blue fruit in the later months. I am surprised that the bloom color is pH sensitive but lovely no matter what the aluminum availability may be in your soil. Research indicates that leaves were used for medical purposes in China and other parts of Asia. Strong stems and foliage will add color to your hydrangea garden all year long!