Hydrangea arborescens 'NCHA2'

‘Invincibelle™ Spirit II’ hydrangea is a slow-growing, low-maintenance woody, deciduous perennial shrub that is a member of the hydrangea family (Hydrangeaceae). It is a cultivar in the Incrediball series, which was developed as a collaboration with Dr. Thomas G. Ranney of North Carolina State University and the Spring Meadow Nursery of Grand Haven, Michigan.  

This hydrangea can grow in full sun in cooler climates, but afternoon shade and consistent moisture are recommended in hotter areas. A minimum of four hours of sun is required for best flower color and stem strength. A layer of shredded bark mulch is recommended to protect the shallow roots and retain moisture in the summer. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot. The plant may die back in harsh winters.  The plant grows to a height of 3 to 4 feet and a width of 3 to six feet, so plant multiple plants at least 6 feet apart. The plant can be pruned, but keep in mind that flowers appear on new growth.

It has dark foliage, stiff stems, and large rich pink flowers that bloom from midsummer to frost. The flower color ages to an attractive green. It makes excellent cut or dried flowers for arrangements. It attracts bees, moths, pollinators, songbirds, and butterflies and is resistant to wildlife foraging and black walnut rot.  It is a host plant for the larvae of the Hydrangea sphinx moth (Darapsa versicolor)

Plant as a border, hedge, or mass planting in a cottage, cutting, pollinator, rain, or shade garden, or along walkways or naturalized areas. 

Insects, Diseases, and Other Problems: it is susceptible to bud blight, bacterial wilt, leaf spots, mold, rust, and powdery mildew. It may also be troubled by aphids, mites, scale, and nematodes. Ingestion in large quantities of any part of the plant can result in gastrointestinal problems for humans and pets.

 Note: It is illegal to propagate patented plant material.

VIDEO Created by Elizabeth Meyer for "Trees, Shrubs and Conifers" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.

More information on Hydrangea arborescens.