Garden hydrangea - Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle'

Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle' (correct: Hydrangea arborescens) is one of the most popular and reliable shrub hydrangeas. It is valued for its very large, spherical white flowers, which appear abundantly in summer.

The flowers form on new wood, which means it blooms reliably even after harsh winters or severe pruning. The flower heads can reach 20–30 cm in diameter. They begin light green, turn pure white, then gradually become lime green and beige as they age. The shrub has a rounded shape, reaching 1–1.5 m in height (sometimes up to 2 m), with broad, deep green leaves.

Key features:

• Very large, spherical white flowers
• Blooms on new wood (very reliable after frost)
• Compact, rounded shape
• Excellent frost resistance
• Size: usually 1–1.5 m in height and width

Easy care:

• Light: partial shade to full sun. In areas with very hot summers, it prefers partial shade.
• Temperature: very frost-resistant (down to -25…-30°C in suitable areas).
• Watering: keep the soil consistently slightly moist, especially during warm periods. It does not tolerate prolonged drought.
• Soil: rich, well-drained, preferably slightly acidic or neutral.
• Pruning: it can be cut back hard in spring (even to 20–30 cm above the ground), as it flowers on new shoots.

Recommended substrate:
For planting in the garden or in large pots, a high-quality, rich, well-drained soil is recommended.

→ Premium universal flower soil (Netherlands) - Secret Garden

Uses:
Excellent for borders, group plantings, standalone positions, or English- and romantic-style gardens. The flowers are also very suitable for fresh or dried bouquets. It is one of the most reliable hydrangea choices for Romania's climate.

Note: The very large flower heads may weigh down the shoots, especially after rain. To prevent this, the shrubs can be supported or pruned slightly shorter in spring to encourage stronger shoots.

Pot diameter: 17 cm
Height including pot: approx. 60 cm