Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Hydrangea arborescens 'Abetwo'
Incrediball Smooth Hydrangea
- Family
- Hydrangeaceae
- Height
- 4 to 6 feet
- Width
- 4 to 6 feet
- Flower color
- Pale green, turning white as they age
- Foliage color
- Dark green
- Bloom time
- Late spring to summer
- Light
- Partial shade to full sun
- Water
- Regular water
- Maintenance
- Moderate; prune back in early spring to promote fresh growth and more flowers
- Growing zone
- Zones 3 to 9
- Wildlife
- Attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies
About this plant
Hydrangea arborescens 'Abetwo', commonly known as the Smooth Hydrangea, is a cultivar that features large, showy clusters of white flowers that bloom from late spring to summer. The flowers start off as pale green before turning pure white as they mature, creating a soft, luminous effect. These blooms are arranged in rounded, flat-topped panicles that provide a substantial visual impact without overwhelming the garden.
'Abetwo' is admired for its reliable blooming season and its ability to thrive in a variety of garden settings. The white blooms stand out beautifully against its rich, dark green foliage, offering a delicate contrast as the plant blooms into the warmer months. This cultivar is ideal for adding a gentle elegance to borders, mixed plantings, or shaded garden areas.
Works well in
Shade Gardens · Foundation Plantings · Woodland Gardens · Cottage Gardens
Companion plants
Pieris · Japanese forest grass · Brunnera · Viburnum · Trillium · Lungwort
Design tip
The exceptionally large flower heads give ‘Incrediball’ considerable visual weight. Repeat the shrub at intervals through a border rather than concentrating several together, creating a strong rhythm while allowing each rounded floral display enough visual space.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
