Hydrangea arborescens

Hydrangea arborescens  is not afraid of either the sun or brief dry periods.  Native to the United States, this hydrangea grows, unlike its Japanese cousins, in the sun, in acidic or limestone soils. In summer, it bears large inflorescences often white, as in the 'Annabelle' or 'Incrediball' varieties, or pink, as in the 'Invincibelle' or 'Bella Anna' varieties. The arborescent hydrangea forms a large hemispherical bush with a diameter of 1.50m (5ft). Its deciduous leaves are green, measuring from 10 to 20cm (4 to 8in) long and are ovate and wide. Easy to grow, this Hydrangea thrives almost anywhere, it is not afraid of cold or diseases. It can be grown in pots or flower beds and forms beautiful graphic combinations when planted along a line of yews or boxwoods, pruned to perfection.