
One of the loveliest hydrangeas, 'Annabelle' has huge globes of tightly packed, creamy white bracts that look like giant snowballs in late summer. As autumn progresses, the flowerheads fade to pale lime and the dark green, pointed leaves turn soft yellow.
Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle' has an upright habit and makes a breathtaking feature in a wide, partly shady border, particularly when planted in groups or with other hydrangeas.
The flowerheads are a popular choice for dried flower arrangements. These beautiful flowers are heavy which means the stems on young plants can struggle to support the weight. The stems will strengthen as the plant matures but in the early years it is best to use plant supports.
Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle' has an upright habit and makes a breathtaking feature in a wide, partly shady border, particularly when planted in groups or with other hydrangeas.
The flowerheads are a popular choice for dried flower arrangements. These beautiful flowers are heavy which means the stems on young plants can struggle to support the weight. The stems will strengthen as the plant matures but in the early years it is best to use plant supports.
How to care for Hydrangea arborescens Annabelle:
Choose a spot with partial shade to full sun, though at hotter, sunnier times of the year, partial shade is preferable to protect the blooms and avoid the plant wilting after planting. The soil should be well-drained, rich, and consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and just as deep, then mix in plenty of organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. Place the plant in the hole, backfill with the enriched soil, and water thoroughly. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and keep the roots cool, but keep the mulch away from the stem to prevent rot.
Regular watering is important, especially during dry spells, to ensure the plant establishes well and produces abundant blooms - hydrangeas do not like to dry out. Remove faded flowerheads in spring after the danger of frosts, cutting back the flowered stems to a strong pair of buds. Take out misplaced or diseased shoots.
Once established, remove a quarter to a third of the shoots to the base of the plant.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and just as deep, then mix in plenty of organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. Place the plant in the hole, backfill with the enriched soil, and water thoroughly. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and keep the roots cool, but keep the mulch away from the stem to prevent rot.
Regular watering is important, especially during dry spells, to ensure the plant establishes well and produces abundant blooms - hydrangeas do not like to dry out. Remove faded flowerheads in spring after the danger of frosts, cutting back the flowered stems to a strong pair of buds. Take out misplaced or diseased shoots.
Once established, remove a quarter to a third of the shoots to the base of the plant.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
2.5m
Eventual spread:
2.5m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
-
This shrub is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.
-
Humans: Skin allergen; Pets: Harmful if eaten
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