Hydrangea arborescens BellaRagazza Limetta

Hydrangea arborescens BellaRagazza® Limetta (‘NCHA8’) belongs to a lineage of dwarf 'Annabelle' type hydrangeas perfectly suited for decorating terraces, balconies, and small gardens. Small in size, but endowed with the romanticism and accommodating character of the large 'Annabelle' that captivates so many gardeners, this small bush produces large frothy flowers in lime green and cream tones, which are decorative throughout summer. Its short and sturdy stems effortlessly support the weight of the flowers, even when soaked with rain. A wonderful hydrangea, as charming as it is easy to grow!

Hydrangea arborescens, also known as Virginia Hydrangea, belongs to the large Hydrangeaceae family. This botany species native to the Southeastern USA is less demanding in terms of shade and soil than its Asian counterparts, and therefore very easy to grow in any moist and flexible soil. It has given rise to numerous varieties through hybridisation, which prove to be excellent garden bushes.

BellaRagazza® Limetta is a perfectly hardy plant that faithfully reflowers even after cold winters, on the current year's shoots. It is suitable for cold regions, as it renews its floral buds all summer and does not fear spring frosts. It develops strong and ramified stems, forming a bush of about 65 to 75cm (26 to 30in) in all directions, a format perfectly suited for cultivation in tubs or pots. The flowering starts at the end of June and renews until September. It takes the form of large globular inflorescences called corymbs, which can measure up to 18cm (7in) in diameter. Each is made up of a multitude of small flowers called florets. Each floret has 3 to 4 sepals that successively turn from lime green to greenish-white before turning lime green again. The foliage consists of beautiful single leaves, 10 to 15cm (4 to 6in) long, which are wide and ovate, nicely embossed, and a medium green. The leaves are deciduous, and fall in autumn. Hydrangeas can live for 50 years.

If you like small, flowering, robust and easy to grow hydrangeas in any good garden soil, Hydrangea arborescens BellaRagazza® Limetta (‘NCHA8’) is the one for you! If your decor is rather contemporary, or if you have a small city garden, this small-sized bush will bring a romantic and natural touch. This plant animates all semi-shaded areas, on a terrace or in the garden, placed alone, in a flower bed, or even in a group of 3 subjects. Plant a small border of boxwood or Lonicera nitida 'Elegant' to form a setting for its large flowers. It can also be surrounded by grasses, hardy fuchsias, daffodils, and pansies to extend the flowering and complete the range of colours. Finally, cut its flowers to compose very beautiful bouquets.