Hydrangea arborescens 'Strong Annabelle' is a spectacular deciduous shrub, prized for its enormous, pure white flower heads that can reach up to 30cm across. Flowering from mid to late summer, the blooms gradually mature to soft green as the season progresses, extending their ornamental appeal well into autumn.
Bred as an improved version of the classic 'Annabelle', this variety features stronger, sturdier stems that hold the impressive flower heads upright, even after summer rain. Its lush green foliage provides the perfect backdrop to the striking blooms, creating a bold focal point in borders, cottage gardens and woodland-style planting schemes.
Reaching an eventual height and spread of around 1.2–1.5m, 'Strong Annabelle' thrives in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. It is easy to care for, benefiting from a hard prune in early spring to encourage vigorous new growth and abundant flowering each year.
Whether planted as a standalone specimen or in groups for maximum impact, Hydrangea 'Strong Annabelle' delivers months of elegant colour and structure. Its long-lasting blooms also make exceptional cut flowers, both fresh and dried, bringing beauty indoors as well as out.