Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle' (Smooth Hydrangea)
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Plant Name | Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle' (Smooth Hydrangea) |
| Common Name | Smooth Hydrangea 'Annabelle' |
| Plant Type | Deciduous shrub |
| Height | 3 to 5 feet (0.9 to 1.5 meters) |
| Spread | 4 to 6 feet (1.2 to 1.8 meters) |
| Flower Colour | Large, rounded, white flower clusters |
| Bloom Time | Late spring to early summer |
| Foliage | Dark green, serrated leaves |
| Sun Exposure | Partial to full sun |
| Soil | Well-draining, rich, loamy soil |
| Watering | Regular, to keep the soil consistently moist |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Uses | Borders, hedges, mass plantings, cut flowers |
| Notable Feature | Abundant, showy white flower clusters |
Planting Aspects
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Site Selection: Choose a location with partial to full sun exposure. Smooth Hydrangea 'Annabelle' prefers sunlight but can tolerate some shade.
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Soil Preparation: Prepare well-draining, rich, loamy soil with organic matter to enhance moisture retention.
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Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the nursery container. Ensure that the crown of the plant is level with the soil surface.
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Spacing: Space plants about 4 to 6 feet apart to allow for their mature spread.
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Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the establishment period. Regular watering is essential to maintain soil moisture.
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Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base to help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
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Maintenance: Prune away faded flower clusters and trim back old growth in late winter or early spring to encourage fresh growth.
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Fertilizing: Smooth Hydrangea 'Annabelle' generally doesn't require heavy fertilization. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring can promote healthy growth.
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Winter Care: The shrub is hardy but may benefit from winter mulch in very cold regions to protect its roots.
Smooth Hydrangea 'Annabelle' (Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle') is a popular deciduous shrub celebrated for its large, rounded, white flower clusters. These abundant, showy blooms create a striking display in late spring to early summer. The dark green foliage provides an attractive backdrop to the flowers. This variety is ideal for borders, hedges, mass plantings, or as cut flowers in arrangements.