Hydrangea quercifolia (Oakleaf Hydrangea)

Native to moist woods and stream banks in the southeastern United States, this is an upright, multi-stemmed deciduous shrub. Large, deeply lobed leaves resemble oak foliage and provide seasonal interest as their colors change in autumn. Showy white flowers gather in pyramidal clusters, aging through pink to brown. Mature branches develop reddish brown bark that peels away in thin layers. The species flowers on older stems. Its fertile flowers attract insects, while songbirds eat the seeds. It is grown as a specimen shrub or informal hedge. Its bark, leaves and flowers can cause stomach upset if eaten. Photographed in Colombia.