'Annabelle' Smooth Hydrangea - DISCONTINUED

***We no longer offer this product. Create a similar look with Incrediball! A hydrangea for all time! 'Annabelle' smooth hydrangea (H. arborescens) is a true garden classic that combines beauty with a storied past. Discovered in 1960 growing near a horse path in southern Illinois by University of Illinois horticulture professor Dr. Joe McDaniel, it has since become one of the most widely-planted and beloved garden plants. 'Annabelle' hydrangea is essentially a mophead version of the North American smooth hydrangea, with big, full, round flowers. They begin white and age to green, and are nice to enjoy as cut flowers, both fresh and dried. For all its good qualities, 'Annabelle' does have very weak stems, which cause it to flop over after a heavy rain storm or wind. For an improved variety with stronger, sturdier stems and virtually no flopping, choose Incrediball hydrangea instead. What makes 'Annabelle' different from other smooth hydrangeas? Interesting back story; an heirloom plant for the ages The first mophead hydrangea of its kind Details:Name: Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle'Hardiness: USDA zones 3-8Height + width: 3-4' x 5-6'Light: Full to part sunSoil: Any well-drained soil will do. Though dry conditions are unlikely to harm an established plant, prolonged drought will severely limit floral life.Pruning: Blooms on new wood; prune back by one-third in late winter/early spring for better habit and a slight improvement in stem strength.Water: Average water needs. Does not tolerate wet conditions.Fertilizer: Fertilize once in early spring with a rose fertilizer if desired.Bloom time: Early summerBloom color: White, aging to green. Green color persists until frost.Uses: Versatile 'Annabelle' can be used in many different landscape and garden applications, lending itself well to low hedges, specimen planting, flower gardens, and cut flower beds.