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Description
Hydrangea arborescens abetwo, commonly known as Incrediball® Hydrangea, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Hydrangeaceae family. It is a cultivar of the native smooth hydrangea and is known for its enormous white flowers that can reach up to 12 inches in diameter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Hydrangeaceae |
| Genus | Hydrangea |
Appearance
Incrediball® Hydrangea is a large shrub that can grow up to 5 feet tall and wide. It has a rounded shape with dark green foliage that turns yellow in the fall. The flowers are white and have a dome-like shape, similar to a snowball. They bloom in early summer and can last until fall. The bark of the plant is brown and peels off in thin strips.
Care Guide
Incrediball® Hydrangea is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to ensure its optimal growth:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: Incrediball® Hydrangea prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil pH levels.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. However, it can tolerate full shade but may produce fewer flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: Incrediball® Hydrangea can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Incrediball® Hydrangea is generally a disease-resistant plant but can be susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some common ones:
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves. Use an insecticidal soap to control them.
- Powdery Mildew: A fungal disease that causes white powdery growth on leaves. Use a fungicide to control it.
- Bacterial Wilt: A bacterial disease that causes wilting and death of the plant. There is no cure for this disease, and the infected plant should be removed and destroyed.
Habitat
Incrediball® Hydrangea is native to the eastern United States and can be found growing in woodland areas, along streams, and in wetlands. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Incrediball® Hydrangea?
A: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the optimal pH level for Incrediball® Hydrangea?
A: Incrediball® Hydrangea can tolerate a range of soil pH levels but prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.2-6.2.
Q: Can Incrediball® Hydrangea tolerate full shade?
A: Yes, Incrediball® Hydrangea can tolerate full shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Q: How tall and wide can Incrediball® Hydrangea grow?
A: Incrediball® Hydrangea can grow up to 5 feet tall and wide.
Related Plants
- Hydrangea macrophylla (Bigleaf Hydrangea)
- Hydrangea quercifolia (Oakleaf Hydrangea)
- Hydrangea paniculata (Panicled Hydrangea)
References
- “Hydrangea arborescens ‘Abetwo’ Incrediball®.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e177.
- “Hydrangea arborescens ‘Abetwo’ Incrediball®.” Plant Finder, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/1171/incrediball-hydrangea/.
- “Incrediball® Hydrangea – Hydrangea arborescens ‘Abetwo’.” Garden Design, www.gardendesign.com/plants/incrediball-hydrangea.
