Hydrangea arborescens Pink Annabelle - Invicibelle

Hydrangea arborescens 'Pink Annabelle' or 'Invincibelle' is a recent variety of Virginia hydrangea with pink flowers, the first arboreal variety of this colour (the previous ones were white). Very floriferous, it decorates the garden from June until the first frost with its large florets measuring 20 cm (7.9 in) in diameter. This beautiful hardy bush, with a rounded habit, reaches a height of 1.5 m (4.9 ft) when fully grown. The sturdy stems easily support the weight of the flowers, even when soaked with rain. It will find its place in sunny flower beds and hedges, but also adapts perfectly to being grown in pots or containers on a terrace. It also makes lovely cut flowers for fresh or dried bouquets.

Hydrangea arborescens, or Virginia hydrangea, belongs to the large Hydrangeaceae family. This botanical species native to the Southeastern USA is less demanding in terms of shade and soil than its Asian counterparts. Through hybridisation, it has given rise to numerous varieties that are excellent garden shrubs.

'Pink Annabelle' is a recent variety obtained in 2011, and is the pink-flowered version of 'Strong Annabelle', which has white flowers. It is a hardy plant that reliably reblooms even after cold winters, on new shoots. It can thrive in cold regions. It continues to produce new flower buds throughout the summer and is not afraid of spring frosts. It has beautiful ramified stems that reach up to 1.5 m (4.9 ft) and form a bush of at least the same width (or even wider depending on the conditions). From the end of June onwards, they are crowned with very large perfectly spherical corymbs that continue to bloom until late summer. The inflorescences can measure up to 20 cm (7.9 in) in diameter and are made up of a multitude of small flowers with 3 to 4 sepals. They open as greenish-pink and become pale pink as they mature. The overall effect is elegantly harmonised with the deciduous foliage, which is a fairly dark green and consists of beautiful simple leaves measuring 10 cm to 20 cm (3.9 in to 7.9 in) in length, wide and ovate, with a charmingly crinkled texture. Hydrangeas can live for many years in the garden, often more than 50 years.

If you like hydrangeas with a natural appearance that are easy to grow in any good garden soil, 'Pink Annabelle' will delight you. If your decor is more contemporary, or if you have a small urban garden, this moderately sized bush will bring an elegant touch. 'Pink Annabelle' brightens up any partially shaded scene, whether planted alone or in groups. Plant a small border of boxwood or Lonicera nitida 'Elegant' at its base to form a backdrop for its large pink and green flowers. In the front of an urban garden, it brings romance and distinction. It can be surrounded by Hellebores, hardy Fuchsias, Daffodils, and Pansies, which extend the flowering period and complement the range of colours. Finally, while it looks stunning in flower beds and hedges, it is also perfect for use in pots or containers on a terrace. Cut its flowers to create beautiful bouquets!