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Smooth Hydrangea 'Annabelle'

Hydrangea arborescens "Annabelle"

$23.00 Sold out

1 Gallon | Hardiness Zones 4-8

Annabelle' is a selection of our native Hydrangea arborescens. It is a deciduous shrub to 5 or even 6 feet with very showy white snowball flower clusters in early summer. It was selected by the late Dr. J.C. McDaniel at the University of Illinois. Dr. Michael Dirr described Dr. McDaniel as "a true plantsman and gentleman". Plant 'Annabelle' in a semi-shady site with good soil that is moist but well-drained and allow space for it to spread and cover larger area.

Plant Specs
  • Zones: 4 to 8
  • Sun: Full Sun and Part Shade
  • Soil: Well-drained and Fertile
  • Growth Rate: Fast

Pickup currently unavailable at Aiken Nursery

Hardiness Zones: 4 - 8

Soil: Well-drained and Fertile

Sun: Full Sun and Part Shade

Seasonal Behavior: Deciduous

Growth Rate: Fast

Height at Maturity: 3 - 5 Feet

Spread at Maturity: 6 - 7 Feet

Foliage: The leaves are dark green, broadly oval, and provide a lush backdrop for the flowers.

Flowers: Produces large, rounded clusters of white flowers that can reach up to 12 inches in diameter. The flowers bloom from early summer to early fall and can last for several weeks, gradually turning green as they age.

Creamy white, snowball, June - August

Read full care instruction manual here.

Light Requirements: Prefers partial shade to full sun. Annabelle Hydrangea thrives in locations with morning sun and afternoon shade. While it can tolerate full sun, especially in cooler climates, too much direct sunlight in hotter regions can cause the flowers to wilt and the foliage to scorch. In areas with intense afternoon sun, providing some shade will help protect the plant.

Soil Requirements: Thrives in well-draining, fertile soil. Annabelle Hydrangea prefers rich, loamy soil that is slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH of 5.5-7.0. The soil should be high in organic matter, such as compost or leaf mold, to retain moisture while providing good drainage. Although it can adapt to various soil types, consistent moisture is key to maintaining healthy growth and abundant blooms.

Watering: Requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Annabelle Hydrangea appreciates deep watering that reaches the roots, particularly during the growing season and hot weather. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain soil moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Temperature and Humidity: Hardy in USDA zones 4-8. Annabelle Hydrangea is well-suited to a wide range of temperate climates and can tolerate cold winters. It prefers moderate to high humidity but can adapt to varying conditions. The plant is winter-hardy and will go dormant in cold weather, with new growth emerging in the spring.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth and abundant flowering. An additional light feeding in mid-summer can help sustain vigor during the growing season. Organic compost or a mild liquid fertilizer can also be used to provide nutrients. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth with fewer flowers.

Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Since Annabelle Hydrangea blooms on new wood, cutting back the stems to about 12-18 inches above the ground encourages more robust growth and larger blooms. Deadheading spent flowers can extend the blooming period and improve the plant's appearance.

Pests and Problems: Generally pest-resistant, but may occasionally be affected by aphids, spider mites, or leaf spot. Good air circulation around the plant helps prevent fungal diseases such as powdery mildew. If pests or diseases are detected, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Regular monitoring and maintaining garden hygiene can help prevent problems.

Grown in Aiken, S.C.

At Woodlanders, we are committed to quality.

All our plant material is carefully propagated, grown, and nurtured at our humble nursery in Aiken, South Carolina.

Learn more about Woodlanders here.

Here’s a closer look at how we produce our plants:
from rooting to shipping, our top priority is ensuring you receive healthy, thriving plants for your garden’s success.

The majority of our plants are carefully cultivated from rooted cuttings, while we also utilize propagation methods such as seed, air layering, and grafting, thoughtfully chosen to suit each plant’s unique needs.

Our plants are cultivated using sustainable practices, including organic soil blends and eco-friendly pest management, ensuring they thrive while minimizing environmental impact.

We are proud to contribute to local biodiversity through ongoing donations to the Aiken Arboretum and support for local wildlife conservation efforts, helping to preserve and enhance our community’s natural ecosystems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What to expect upon delivery

All our plants are sold in 1-gallon sizes, though the height of each plant can vary depending on its growth rate and seasonality, typically ranging from 1/2 to 2.5 feet.

Each plant is carefully packaged with its roots enclosed in a secure plastic bag containing moist soil, forming a compact root ball. To ensure safe transport, the box is padded with recycled newspaper, providing both stability and eco-friendly protection from weather during shipping.

What is your return policy?

Review our full return policy information on our SHIPPING AND RETURNS POLICY page.

What payment methods can I use?

We offer 35 different payment methods including major providers like Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, American Express and Diners as well as many different local payment methods including Klarna, iDEAL, AliPay, Sofort, giropay, and many more.

Can I make changes to my order after it’s been placed?

At Woodlanders, we strive to fulfill orders as quickly as possible. Therefore, we can only accommodate changes to your order within the first 24 hours after it has been placed. These changes include adding or removing products and modifying the delivery address. If you need to make any changes or if there has been a mistake with your order information, please reach out to us promptly via our CONTACT page with your order number for the quickest resolution.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.