Annabelle Hydrangea, Annabelle Smooth Hydrangea, Annabelle Wild Hydrangea, Smooth Hydrangea 'Annabelle', Wild Hydrangea 'Annabelle', Hydrangea 'Annabelle'
Hydrangea arborescens ‘Annabelle’, commonly known as Annabelle Hydrangea, is an outstanding flowering shrub renowned for its magnificent, large, round flower clusters that maintain their stunning appearance throughout the blooming season. They brighten shady areas and bring life to the garden. Its robust nature and long-lasting blooms make it a favorite among gardeners seeking to add charm to their landscapes.
This hydrangea is a member of the Hydrangeaceae family, which includes several popular garden varieties like Hydrangea macrophylla (Bigleaf Hydrangea), Hydrangea paniculata (Panicle Hydrangea), Hydrangea arborescens (Smooth Hydrangea), Hydrangea quercifolia (Oakleaf Hydrangea), Hydrangea serrata (Mountain Hydrangea), and Hydrangea anomala petiolaris (Climbing Hydrangea).
Annabelle Hydrangea is celebrated for its large, spherical flower clusters that can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter. The flowers begin as a lime green before turning pristine white and switching to a tan shade in the fall. This variety exhibits a sturdy growth habit, making it an excellent choice for creating stunning focal points in any landscape.
Prized for its excellent resistance to insects and diseases, Annabelle is a good choice for the mixed border.
Hydrangea arborescens is native to the eastern United States and is particularly found in woodlands, along riverbanks, and in open spaces. This native habitat allows it to thrive in a variety of garden conditions, making it adaptable to different soil types and light levels.
Annabelle Hydrangea is a small, bushy, deciduous shrub characterized by its upright, bushy growth habit. It typically develops multiple stems, creating a dense and lush appearance that enhances its ornamental value throughout the growing season.
Annabelle Hydrangea generally grows 3-5 feet (0.9-1.5 meters) tall and can spread 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters) wide. This compact size makes it suitable for borders, mass plantings, or as a specimen plant in smaller gardens.
The most striking feature of Annabelle Hydrangea is its large, globe-like flower clusters, which bloom from early summer to fall. Blooming for up to two months, the flowers initially appear lime green, transforming to brilliant white as they mature. They then return to pale green in late summer before switching to a tan shade in the fall. Each cluster can reach a diameter of up to 12 inches (30 cm), providing an impressive visual display.
Annabelle is known for its prolific blooming ability, producing an abundance of flowers throughout the season. The shrub blooms on new wood, ensuring reliable flowering even after winter pruning.
The large, dark green, oval-shaped leaves provide a lush backdrop for the stunning blooms. The foliage typically remains healthy throughout the growing season and turns beautiful shades of yellow or bronze in the fall, adding to the shrub’s visual interest.
Annabelle Hydrangea has received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society and the Gold Medal Award of The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society.
Annabelle Hydrangea is hardy in USDA zones 3-8, making it suitable for a wide range of climates.
This versatile shrub fits beautifully into many landscaping applications. It works well as a focal point in borders with companion plants, as a flowering hedge, or in mass plantings for stunning visual impact. The blooms also make excellent cut flowers, adding elegance to floral arrangements. They can also be dried and preserved for use in wreaths and home decor, allowing you to enjoy their beauty year-round.
Hydrangea arborescens attracts pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, due to its abundant flowers. Songbirds eat the seeds.
All parts of the plant are considered poisonous if ingested due to the presence of hydrangin, a cyanogenic glycoside. It’s generally safe for humans to handle, but ingestion can cause discomfort. Hydrangea is considered toxic to pets, including dogs and cats.
Hydrangea plants are not reliably deer-resistant, so protective measures may be necessary if deer are common in your area.
Annabelle Hydrangea is not considered invasive. It maintains its size and shape without spreading aggressively, making it a well-behaved addition to any garden setting.
Stunning floral display, long blooming season, pollinator-friendly, and versatile landscape uses.
Prefers full sun to partial shade, ideally receiving at least 6 hours of sunlight daily for optimal blooming. Afternoon shade in hot summer climates is recommended. Full sun is tolerated if constant moisture is provided.
Requires regular watering, especially during dry spells. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, as overwatering can lead to root rot.
Thrives in well-drained, loamy soil. Adding organic matter can improve soil structure and fertility. The soil pH does not affect the flower color.
Use a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring as new growth begins. Fertilize again in mid-summer to support ongoing blooming. Everything you need to know about fertilizing hydrangeas.
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Cut back last year’s growth to about 12-18 inches to promote larger flower clusters. Learn how to prune your hydrangea to maximize flower production.
Can be propagated through cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Use stem cuttings with at least two nodes and root in moist potting soil. Discover how to propagate your hydrangea for more beautiful blooms.
Watch for pests like aphids and spider mites. Powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot can occur in humid conditions. Regular monitoring and proper care can mitigate these issues. Popular pests and diseases affecting hydrangea plants.
Annabelle Hydrangeas prefer full sun to partial shade. They thrive best in locations that receive at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. In hotter climates, some afternoon shade can help protect them from extreme heat.
Yes, it is beneficial to cut back Annabelle Hydrangeas. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This helps maintain their shape and encourages robust flowering.
Annabelle Hydrangeas typically grow to be about 3 to 5 feet (0.9 to 1.5 meters) tall and 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters) wide. Their compact size makes them suitable for borders, mass plantings, or as specimen plants in smaller gardens.
| Hardiness |
3 - 8 |
|---|---|
| Heat Zones |
1 - 9 |
| Climate Zones | 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, A3 |
| Plant Type | Shrubs |
| Plant Family | Hydrangeaceae |
| Genus | Hydrangea |
| Common names | Hydrangea, Smooth Hydrangea |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall |
| Height | 3' - 5' (90cm - 150cm) |
| Spread | 4' - 6' (120cm - 180cm) |
| Spacing | 48" - 72" (120cm - 180cm) |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Dried Arrangements, Cut Flowers, Plant of Merit, Showy |
| Tolerance | Salt |
| Attracts | Bees, Butterflies |
| Garden Uses | Beds And Borders, Hedges And Screens, Patio And Containers |
| Garden Styles | Traditional Garden, City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage |
| Hardiness |
3 - 8 |
|---|---|
| Heat Zones |
1 - 9 |
| Climate Zones | 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, A3 |
| Plant Type | Shrubs |
| Plant Family | Hydrangeaceae |
| Genus | Hydrangea |
| Common names | Hydrangea, Smooth Hydrangea |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall |
| Height | 3' - 5' (90cm - 150cm) |
| Spread | 4' - 6' (120cm - 180cm) |
| Spacing | 48" - 72" (120cm - 180cm) |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Dried Arrangements, Cut Flowers, Plant of Merit, Showy |
| Tolerance | Salt |
| Attracts | Bees, Butterflies |
| Garden Uses | Beds And Borders, Hedges And Screens, Patio And Containers |
| Garden Styles | Traditional Garden, City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage |
How many Hydrangea arborescens ‘Annabelle’ (Smooth Hydrangea) do I need for my garden?
| Plant | Quantity | |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrangea arborescens ‘Annabelle’ (Smooth Hydrangea) | N/A | Buy Plants |
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Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
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