Hydrangea arborescens 'Abetwo' STRONG ANNABELLE® sevenbark, smooth hydrangea

STRONG ANNABELLE® is a new name for a beautiful sevenbark variety from 2009, PP20571. It was patented as 'Abetwo' and marketed as INCREDIBALL® from the beginning. However, after a few years of continuous misspelling the name was changed to STRONG ANNABELLE® which is exactly what this plant is - a stronger improvement of former Annabelle variety.

It produces typical mop-head inflorescence composed of pure white, slightly and pleasantly fragrant flowers from early July. They remain pretty till almost late August. Each panicle can be as wide as 28 cm and about 19 cm tall, i.e. much larger than those of Annabelle, and are borne atop thicker stems that hold the inflorescence better during and after the rain. Deciduous leaves are mid to dark green, turning yellow in autumn.

Grow this hydrangea if you are in doubt whether the large-leaved macrophylla varieties with coloured flowers will survive your winter. This one will grow happily in USDA zone 3 where winter temperatures drop down to -40°C, and can or rather should be cut severely in the spring. It may be pruned in early spring but pruning is not crucial for sturdy stems.

It will grow in almost any soil type, preferably in moist soil that will not be too heavy or shallow. Fertilizing is not necessary but the plant will be stronger in humus-rich soil. Don't forget to water this beauty more frequently as it is dependent on regular water supply. Hardy to about -40°C (USDA zone 3).

Last update 03-01-2011; 21-02-2018