Shrub to about 2 m tall. Leaves stalked, to about 6 cm long, more numerous on nonflowering shoots, ovate, margin slightly scalloped; hairs on upper surface with 4-6 rays, those below with 6-13 rays. Flowers in elongate white clusters to 2 cm wide, with long, narrow petals; spring. Stamens 2, styles 3-4.

Japan, SE China.

Differs from D. scabra in having hairs on lower surface with 6-13 rays.

Source: Spencer, R. (2002). Hydrangeaceae. In: Spencer, R.. Horticultural Flora of South-eastern Australia. Volume 3. Flowering plants. Dicotyledons. Part 2. The identification of garden and cultivated plants. University of New South Wales Press.