A deciduous shrub with dark green leaves that creates a nice rounded bush. It produces a stunning display of large round white flower heads in summer. The flowers last to early autumn. They are suitable to cut for fresh or dried flowers.

Height/Spread: 2.5mx2.5m after 10-20 years.

Position: Full sun to partial shade

Soil: moist but well-drained, Acid to neutral

Flowering season: Late summer

RHS Award of Garden Merit

Uses: Courtyard, Cottage garden, Borders and beds

(Hydrangea arborescens ‘Annabelle’ is a mounding shrub that grows 35 high with a wider spread. In July, it produces huge (812) round heads of pure white blooms that remain attractive into September and can be cut for fresh or dried arrangements.

Its small scale and summer flowering make it a good choice for the mixed border. ‘Annabelle’ Hydrangea is most at home in partial shade and evenly moist but well-drained soil; shell grow in full sun if moisture is ample. Because she flowers heavily on the current seasons growth (new wood), most gardeners cut the stems to the ground in late winter. New shoots emerge from the base and bloom the same summer.

(common name: smooth leaf hydrangea)