Common Names
Smooth hydrangea, sevenbark, wild hydrangea.

Description
A perennial shrub that grows to 10 feet in height, with stems rising from base of the plant. It has large, opposite, ovate leaves, and produces white or greenish flowers at top of branches. Many varieties are recognized.

Flowering Period
May to July.

Habitat
Rich woods, calcareous rocky slopes, banks of streams.

Harvest
Root in the fall.

Uses
The roots and rhizomes have been used as diuretics, cathartics, and tonics. Some authorities say that the drug has value in preventing kidney stones.