Annabelle Hydrangea

Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle'

Family: Hydrangea

Type: Shrub

Other Common Name: Hills of Snow Hydrangea, Snow Hills Hydrangea

Annabelle Hydrangea is a stunning deciduous shrub, renowned for its large, white, globe-shaped flowers. It blooms profusely from early summer to fall, creating a spectacular display.

This variety is known for its hardiness and ease of care, making it a popular choice for gardeners of all skill levels. The flowers are remarkably resilient, maintaining their shape and color even after heavy rain.

Annabelle Hydrangea thrives in partial to full sun and is hardy in zones 3-9. It’s a versatile plant that can adapt to a variety of soil conditions, although it prefers well-draining, moist soil.

Needs & Preferences

Hardiness Zone: 3a-4a

Pet Friendly: Yes

Moisture Preference: Average to moist

Sun Needs: Full sun to shade

Growth

Growth Rate: Fast

Average Height (feet): 4

Average Spread (feet): 5

Average Life Span (years): 20

Form: Round

Ornamental

Flower Color: White

Bloom Season: From mid to late summer

Foliage Color: Green

Foliage Shape: Heart

Bark Color: Green

Bark Texture: Smooth

Products That Feature This Plant

Property Line
$11.95$445.00
Island Design 2
$14.95$1,195.00
Small Accent
$17.95$485.00

Landscaping Your Yard With Annabelle Hydrangea

Incorporating Annabelle Hydrangea into your landscape adds elegance and a sense of lushness. Its large flowers are eye-catching and can serve as the centerpiece of your garden.

This hydrangea is perfect for creating borders, as a stand-alone specimen, or in mass plantings. It pairs well with a variety of other plants, from perennials to shrubs.

Despite its showy appearance, Annabelle Hydrangea is relatively low maintenance. Its ability to bloom on new wood each year means it can be easily pruned and cared for.

white_hydrangeas_annabelle_hydrangea_hydrangea_arborescens_annabelle_plant_by_number

Suitable Garden Styles

Cottage Garden

In a cottage garden, Annabelle Hydrangea adds a classic and romantic feel. Its abundant blooms complement the informal and densely planted style of these gardens.

Woodland Garden

For woodland gardens, this hydrangea is ideal. It thrives under the canopy of trees, adding a layer of brightness to the dappled shade.

Formal Garden

In a formal garden setting, Annabelle Hydrangea brings a sense of grandeur. Its symmetrical blooms can be used to create a visually striking and balanced landscape.

Annabelle Hydrangea Landscaping Ideas

Use it as a foundation planting to enhance the architectural features of your home. Its large blooms create an impressive display that can complement any building style.

Plant it along walkways or garden paths. The flowers create a welcoming and enchanting atmosphere as they guide visitors through your garden.

Combine it with evergreens for year-round interest. The contrast between the hydrangea’s summer blooms and the evergreens’ foliage is visually striking.

Seasonal Interest

Spring

In spring, Annabelle Hydrangea begins to sprout vibrant green foliage. The anticipation of its summer blooms starts to build as the plant comes to life.

Summer

During summer, it's in full bloom. The large, white flowers dominate the plant's appearance, making it a focal point in the garden.

Fall

In the fall, the blooms of Annabelle Hydrangea may take on a greenish hue. The plant begins preparing for dormancy, but its presence remains strong in the garden.

Winter

In winter, Annabelle Hydrangea is dormant. The bare stems still hold their structural integrity, offering textural interest in the winter landscape.

Companion Plants

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Planting Tips

Where to Plant

Annabelle Hydrangea thrives in locations with partial to full sun, though it benefits from afternoon shade in hotter climates. It’s ideal for planting in garden beds, borders, or as a stand-alone specimen.

Light

This hydrangea variety prefers partial to full sun but can tolerate some shade. In regions with intense sun, protection from harsh afternoon rays is beneficial to prevent wilting.

Soil

Annabelle Hydrangea grows best in well-draining, moist soil with a rich organic content. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.

Spacing

Space Annabelle Hydrangeas about 4 to 6 feet apart. Proper spacing allows for adequate air circulation and full growth potential of each plant.

When to Plant

The optimal time for planting Annabelle Hydrangea is in the spring or early fall. Cooler temperatures during these seasons promote root development without the stress of extreme heat.

How to Plant

Dig a hole as deep and twice as wide as the root ball. Place the hydrangea in the hole, fill with soil, and water thoroughly. Ensure the top of the root ball is level with the ground.

Plant Care Tips

Watering

Regular watering is essential, especially during the first growing season. Annabelle Hydrangea prefers consistently moist soil but does not tolerate standing water.

Fertilizing

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to encourage healthy growth and abundant flowering.

Pruning

Prune Annabelle Hydrangea in late winter or early spring. Since it blooms on new wood, pruning stimulates healthy growth and larger flowers.

By Season

 

Spring Care

In spring, apply mulch to retain moisture and control weeds. Begin regular watering and fertilizing as new growth starts.

Summer Care

During summer, continue consistent watering, especially in dry periods. Monitor for pests and diseases, treating as needed.

Fall Care

Reduce watering in the fall and clean up any fallen leaves. No major care is needed as the plant prepares for dormancy.

Winter Care

Annabelle Hydrangea is dormant in winter. Protect the roots with a layer of mulch, especially in colder climates.

Plant Alternatives

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Bobo Hydrangea

Hydrangea paniculata 'Bobo'

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Vanilla Strawberry Hydrangea

Hydrangea paniculata 'Vanilla Strawberry'

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First Editions Eclipse Bigleaf Hydrangea

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Bailmacseven'

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FAQ

How Big Does Annabelle Hydrangea Get?

Annabelle Hydrangea can grow up to 4-5 feet tall and wide, forming a sizable, rounded shrub.

Are Annabelle Hydrangeas Deer Resistant?

While no plant is completely deer-proof, Annabelle Hydrangeas are not a favorite of deer and are somewhat resistant.

Can Annabelle Hydrangea Grow in Shade?

While it prefers some sun, Annabelle Hydrangea can also grow in shaded areas, although blooming may be less prolific in deeper shade.

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