Santa Rosa Gardens

Annabelle is probably the most well known cultivar of Hydrangea arborescens.  It was originally found growing in Anna, Illinois by J.C. McDaniel of University of Illinois.  The blooms on this variety are absolutely beautiful with its pure white globes that have been known to get 10 inches in diameter.  As the blooms age they become a green color and then turn brown.  To support the flowers are upright arching stems that seem to reach out to you due to the weight of the enormous flowers.  The dark green foliage makes a great contrast to the pristine white flowers.  Unlike the Hydrangea macrophylla, this one can be pruned back in the late fall at any height without worry of cutting off future blooms.  However, be sure to allow the plant a few years to become established before any pruning other than deadheading.  More good news is that this hydrangea is cold hardy!  Annabelle is excellent for cut flower arrangements as well as dried flower arrangements.  Use as a single specimen, hedge, or in groups.