Images Depict Mature Plants
Annabelle Hydrangea Shrubs for Sale Online
Annabelle Hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle') is a beloved deciduous shrub known for its large, show-stopping white flower heads that bloom from early summer to fall. Thriving in USDA Hardiness Zones 3-9, this hydrangea grows to a mature size of 3-5 feet tall and wide, making it a perfect choice for garden borders, foundation plantings, or as a standout specimen plant. The massive, rounded flower clusters can reach up to 12 inches in diameter, adding dramatic impact to any landscape. Annabelle Hydrangea is also loved for its long blooming season, offering continuous beauty throughout the summer months.
In addition to its stunning blooms, Annabelle Hydrangea boasts attractive dark green foliage that serves as a perfect backdrop for the vibrant white flowers. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil, making it a versatile choice for many garden settings. While it is adaptable to a variety of soil types, keeping the soil consistently moist will result in the best flower production. Annabelle Hydrangea is also relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions, making it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners.
Annabelle Hydrangea is prized for its cold hardiness and ability to bloom on new wood, meaning it will flower reliably even after harsh winters. Its compact size and rounded shape make it ideal for small gardens or as part of a larger mixed border. The showy blooms are excellent for fresh-cut flowers or dried arrangements, adding versatility to this already stunning shrub. Whether you want to create a statement in your garden or add a reliable, long-blooming shrub to your landscape, Annabelle Hydrangea is a must-have for any garden enthusiast.
Hardiness Zone: | 3-9 |
---|---|
Mature Height: | 4-5 feet |
Mature Width: | 4-5 feet |
Classification: | Broad leaved deciduous shrub, summer flowering |
Sunlight: | Full to partial sun |
Habit: | Upright |
Foliage: | Dark green |
Flower Color: | Pure white |
Pruning Season: | Prune in late winter, flowers on new wood |
Soil Condition: | Any well drained soil |
Water Requirements: | Water well until established |
Uses: | Extremely attractive when used as a focal point in the mixed border, mass planting, or a specimen planting |
How to Care for Annabelle Hydrangea
Be sure to read our planting instructions to ensure a healthy and happy Annabelle Hydrangea for years to come!
How Do I Plant Annabelle Hydrangea?
To plant an Annabelle Hydrangea, choose a location with well-drained soil and partial shade, although it can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. Start by digging a hole that is twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball to give the roots ample space to spread. Gently place the hydrangea in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill the hole with soil, firming it gently around the roots to eliminate air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting to help establish the roots, and apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. During the first growing season, keep the soil consistently moist by watering deeply once or twice a week, especially during dry periods. Annabelle Hydrangea thrives in rich, slightly acidic soils, so adding organic matter such as compost can improve its growth and flower production. When planting multiple Annabelle Hydrangeas for a hedge or mass planting, space them about 3-5 feet apart to allow for their mature size. With proper care and planting, Annabelle Hydrangea will reward you with stunning, large white blooms from early summer through fall, making it a standout in any garden setting.
How Do I Water Annabelle Hydrangea?
To properly water an Annabelle Hydrangea, it’s important to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the first growing season to help the plant establish a strong root system. Water deeply about once or twice a week, ensuring the water reaches the root zone. Deep watering encourages the roots to grow deeper and improves drought tolerance over time. In hot or dry periods, increase the frequency of watering to prevent the soil from drying out, as Annabelle Hydrangea thrives in moist but well-drained soil. Mulching around the base of the plant with organic materials like wood chips or compost will help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Once established, Annabelle Hydrangea becomes more drought-tolerant but still prefers consistently moist soil for optimal blooming. Check the soil regularly, and if the top 1-2 inches feel dry, it’s time to water thoroughly. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot or other fungal issues. Proper watering ensures the production of the large, stunning white blooms that Annabelle Hydrangea is known for, providing continuous beauty in your garden throughout the summer months.
How Do I Fertilize Annabelle Hydrangea?
To fertilize an Annabelle Hydrangea, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring just as new growth begins. A general-purpose fertilizer with a 10-10-10 or 14-14-14 ratio will provide essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, promoting healthy foliage, strong root development, and abundant blooms. Spread the fertilizer evenly around the base of the shrub, avoiding direct contact with the stem, and water thoroughly after application to help the nutrients absorb into the soil. Fertilizing once a year in early spring is typically enough to keep your Annabelle Hydrangea thriving. For an organic approach, you can top-dress the soil with compost or well-rotted manure in early spring to provide a slow release of nutrients and improve soil structure. Be cautious not to over-fertilize, as too much nitrogen can lead to excessive leafy growth at the expense of flower production. Proper fertilization ensures that your Annabelle Hydrangea produces its signature large white blooms throughout the summer, while maintaining healthy, vibrant green foliage. Regular fertilization also enhances the plant’s resilience, allowing it to perform beautifully even in challenging growing conditions.
How Do I Prune Annabelle Hydrangea?
To prune an Annabelle Hydrangea, the best time is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Since Annabelle Hydrangea blooms on new wood, pruning during this time encourages vigorous growth and abundant blooms for the upcoming season. Start by removing any dead, damaged, or diseased branches to maintain the health of the shrub. Next, cut back the remaining stems to about 12-18 inches above the ground, which promotes larger, more robust flowers. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts just above a healthy bud to stimulate new growth. If your Annabelle Hydrangea has become too large or leggy, you can rejuvenate the plant by pruning it back more severely, cutting the stems down to about 6 inches above the ground. This will result in a more compact and fuller plant. However, be careful not to over-prune, as this could reduce the number of blooms in the coming season. Regular light pruning ensures the shrub retains its beautiful shape and maximizes its bloom potential, allowing your Annabelle Hydrangea to produce its signature large, white flowers from early summer through fall.