Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle': Classic Smooth Hydrangea with Giant White Blooms

Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle' (smooth hydrangea) produces creamy, six-inch flower heads that form flattened spheres above heart-shaped leaves from June through frost. This species is native to the southeastern U.S. and is good for grouping in lawns or mixed shrub borders.

Noteworthy Characteristics

The species is good for grouping a few plants in the lawn or in a mixed shrub border. It is native to the southeast U.S.

Care

Prefers shade from midday sun. Blooms on current season's wood throughout summer; best pruned to 6 inches high in early spring.

Propagation

Sow seed in a cold frame in spring; take softwood cuttings in early summer, hardwood cuttings in winter.

Problems

Gray mold, slugs, powdery mildew, rust, ringspot virus, leaf spots.

Overview

• Height: 3–6 ft.
• Spread: 3–6 ft.
• Growth Habit: Spreads
• Growth Pace: Moderate Grower
• Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Moisture: Medium Moisture
• Maintenance: Low
• Characteristics: Native, Showy Flowers, Showy Seed Heads
• Bloom Time: Fall, Summer
• Flower Color: White
• Uses: Beds and Borders, Cut Flower, Dried Flower, Screening
• Style: Cottage Garden, Woodland Garden
• Seasonal Interest: Summer Interest
• Tolerance: Frost Tolerant
• Type: Shrubs