Invincibelle Limetta Hydrangea

Hydrangea arborescens ‘Limetta’

Invincibelle® Limetta Hydrangea is an improved, cold-hardy smooth hydrangea from the Annabelle-derived Invincibelle® series. This variety is prized for its stunning, large, round blooms that typically exhibit a soft creamy-white color with subtle limetta (pale yellow) hues, providing a unique twist on the classic Annabelle. Known for its strong, non-flopping stems and continuous reblooming from early summer to frost, it is an excellent choice for specimen plantings, hedges, and foundation plantings in Southwest Saskatchewan.

Planting & Location

• Hardiness Zone: 3-8
  • Exceptionally winter-hardy and well-suited to prairie climates.
• Mature Size:
  • Approximately 3-4 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide.
• Growth Rate:
  • Moderate to fast, achieving up to 24 inches of growth per year.
• Sunlight Needs:
  • Full sun to partial shade – best results with at least 6 hours of direct sun, though it tolerates some shade.
• Soil Preference:
  • Prefers well-drained, loamy soil; adaptable to clay or sandy soils if drainage is adequate.
  • Avoid waterlogged soils to prevent root rot.
• Spacing:
  • Plant 3-4 feet apart for a dense display or hedge, and 4+ feet apart when used as a specimen shrub.

Watering

• Young Plants (First Year):
  • Water deeply 2-3 times per week to help establish a strong root system.
• Established Shrubs:
  • While drought-tolerant once established, they benefit from weekly deep watering in dry periods.
• General Tip:
  • Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings; overwatering can lead to root rot.

Fertilizing

• First Year:
  • No fertilizer is required; focus on root establishment.
• Mature Shrubs:
  • In early spring, apply a slow-release balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) to promote robust growth and flowering.
  • Organic options such as compost or well-rotted manure can also be used.
  • Avoid excessive nitrogen, which may encourage foliage growth over flower production.

Pruning & Maintenance

• Best Time to Prune:
  • Late winter to early spring, before new growth begins.
• How to Prune:
  • Remove any dead, damaged, or weak branches to improve air circulation and overall plant health.
  • Lightly trim to shape the plant and maintain compact size.
  • Since Invincibelle® Limetta blooms on new wood, pruning in early spring will not diminish flowering.
  • For best results, consider thinning out a few smaller stems to allow more energy for stronger growth on the remaining canes.

Flowers, Foliage & Seasonal Interest

• Bloom Time:
  • Begins in early summer and continues until frost, with a potential for reblooming.
• Flower Color:
  • Displays large, round blooms that start as a soft creamy-white with subtle hints of limetta (pale yellow).
• Foliage:
  • Spring & Summer: Deep green, oval leaves provide an attractive backdrop.
  • Fall: Leaves may turn a gentle golden hue before dropping, adding seasonal interest.
• Fragrance:
  • The blooms offer a mild to moderate sweet fragrance.

Pest & Disease Management

Resistant to:

• Drought and many common hydrangea pests.

Common Pests:

• Aphids: May cause minor leaf curling and sticky residue.
  • Solution: Treat with insecticidal soap or encourage natural predators like ladybugs.
• Spider Mites: Can cause slight discoloration in hot, dry conditions.
  • Solution: Rinse leaves with water or use insecticidal soap if necessary.

Common Diseases:

• Powdery Mildew: May occur in humid conditions.
  • Solution: Improve air circulation around the plant and apply fungicide if needed.
• Leaf Spot: Brown spots on foliage can appear if conditions are too damp.
  • Solution: Remove affected leaves and ensure proper spacing for airflow.

Winter Protection

• Highly winter-hardy – No special measures needed in Zones 3-8.
• Mulching:
  • Apply 2-4 inches of mulch around the base (keeping it off the stems) to insulate roots during cold weather.
• General Tip:
  • In exceptionally cold areas, consider mounding extra mulch around the base in late fall for added protection.

Landscape Uses

Ideal for specimen plantings, hedges, and foundation gardens
Compact growth makes it perfect for small gardens and urban landscapes
Continuous, impressive blooms provide long-lasting seasonal interest
Drought-tolerant once established
Great for fresh-cut and dried flower arrangements

Additional Notes:

• Invincibelle® Limetta Hydrangea is an excellent choice for gardeners looking for a reliable, eye-catching hydrangea with a slight twist on the classic Annabelle look.
• Lifespan: Can thrive for 20+ years with proper care.
• It works well in modern landscapes, cottage gardens, and mixed borders, serving as a focal point due to its large, showy blooms.

Photos courtesy of Proven Winners