Hydrangea arborescens Invincibelle® Spirit II (Smooth Hydrangea)

Perfect for small gardens, Hydrangea arborescens Invincibelle® Spirit II (Smooth Hydrangea) is a small, bushy deciduous shrub boasting a profusion of huge, rounded flower clusters, up to 12 in. (30 cm), packed with deep pink flowers. Blooming in nonstop waves from early summer until frost, the blossoms age to an attractive green. They sit atop strong, sturdy stems that do not flop. Reliable, incredibly hardy, heat tolerant, this US native hydrangea is an improved version of the original pink ‘Annabelle’ hydrangea. Perfect for mixed borders, small gardens and patio containers. The flowers make great cut flowers, fresh or dried.

• Grows up to 42-48 in. tall and wide (105-120 cm).
• Performs best in full sun or dappled shade (the hotter the climate, the more shade is needed). Best grown in average, evenly moist, but well-drained soils. Full sun is tolerated if constant moisture is provided.
• Perfect for shrub or mixed borders, wonderful planted as a flowering hedge, excellent backdrop for your favorite perennials.
• Keep an eye out for aphids, capsid bug, hydrangea scale, leaf spot.
• Requires little to no pruning. Since Smooth Hydrangea blooms on new wood, pruning has to happen late winter or early spring to encourage vigorous growth. The harder you prune (even to the ground), the larger the flowerheads will be.
• May cause mild stomach upset if ingested, contact with foliage may aggravate skin allergies. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.
• Propagate by softwood cuttings.
• Hydrangea arborescens species is native to the eastern United States.