Annabelle Smooth Hydrangea

Annabelle Smooth Hydrangea
Common Name:
Annabelle Smooth Hydrangea
Botanical Name:
Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle'
Family:
Hydrangeaceae
Zone:
3-9
Height:
3-5'
Spread:
3-6'
Bloom Time:
August, July, June
Bloom Description:
Clusters of white flowers decorate large, symmetrical, rounded heads or corymbs, which typically see a circumference of 8-10”. The heads can be heavy and after a rain, they tend to droop and sometimes touch the ground. They bloom on new wood, so prune in late winter; however, if left unpruned, they bloom just fine.
Trail/Garden Location:
Art Trail, East Terrace, North Lawn
Garden Uses:
This small shrub is used in our garden in shrub-borders as well as in mass plantings. The effect of the large, colorful blooms in a mass planting is stunning! This shrub is perfect in a home garden, as they have a rounded habit and can fit in compact places. They prefer part shade with morning sun. If they are in afternoon sun, they tend to wilt quickly. Annabelle likes average, well-drained soil, but can tolerate poorer soils.
Wildlife Benefits:
Used as a source of nectar for some pollinating species. Turkey’s browse the seeds in the fall. Host plant to the Hydrangea Sphinx moth.
Leaf Type:
The 3-6", serrated leaves are elliptical. The dark green summer color fades to soft yellow in autumn.