Hydrangea arborescens Annabelle

Hydrangea arborescens Annabelle

Hydrangea Annabelle produces large white ball -shaped flowers (30cm across) on strong stems. This lovely hardy shrub blooms every year even after severe pruning or intensely cold winters. The large flower heads can also be used for dried flower arrangements.

Supplied as a young specimen.

How to take care of Hydrangea Annabelle

Hydrangeas require a moisture retentive soil that is enriched with organic matter such as peat. Thrives best in partial shade. Choose a sheltered position against a wall or under a tree but avoid hedges.

Protect against severe frost in winter. Do not remove dead flower-heads, leave them on through the winter as they help protect the plant from frost. They may be pruned immediately after blooming as flower buds are formed on previous seasons growth to maintain a specific height.

In spring, feed established plants with a fertiliser and apply a thick layer of mulch for protection of the roots. Colour is due to the soil pH, which affects aluminium availability. Plants with blue or pink flowers tend to be blue in acid soil conditions high in aluminium, mauve in acid to neutral soil, and pink in alkaline soil.

Water plants with rainwater if possible, since mains hard water can affect the flower colour, turning blue flowers mauve or pink. In colder regions, flower buds may freeze without protection.