This shrub is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Soil: moist, well-drained, moderately fertile, humus-rich soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: July to September
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  This pink-flowered form of the ever-popular 'Annabelle' is sure to be a big hit - and like its namesake, it will reliably produce its giant (up to 30cm across) flower clusters on strong stems that do not flop under their weight. It puts on a long-lasting display in the shrub border, and can also be grown in a large pot. It can also be used to make a beautiful informal hedge.
  
  
• Garden care: Hydrangeas do not like to dry out. In dry weather, soak the roots with a hose and the plant will usually recover. 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. Mulch young plants with a well-rotted manure or compost in spring. Once established, remove a quarter to a third of the shoots to the base of the plant.