Today our thoughts turn to what we are thankful for. And one thing I’m thankful for is the fact that with the help of nurseries and garden centers across North America, we have raised over $1.1 million for The Breast Cancer Research Foundation through sales of the Invincibelle® Spirit II hydrangea.

Invincibelle® Spirit II is the powerful, pink smooth hydrangea bred by Dr. Tom Ranney in North Carolina. It delivers dark green foliage and large, deep pink flowers held up on strong, stiff stems.

An easy-to-grow North American native shrub, Invincibelle Spirit II begins to flower in early summer. The flowers start out dark, burgundy in color, open to a rich pink, and gradually age to an attractive green. This hydrangea has the unique ability to continue blooming up until frost, providing months of beautiful pink flowers. While deadheading is not strictly necessary for the plant to re-bloom, it does encourage it to happen faster. Simply remove the faded flower just above a set of leaves.

It’s worth noting, like other shrubs, hydrangeas require three seasons in the ground to perform their best. Remember, sleep, creep, leap! The flower size, color, and quantity will increase dramatically on your Invincibelle® Spirit II hydrangea as it grows into its site.

This hydrangea will do best with a minimum of four hours of sun each day, ideally in the morning. Some direct sun each day ensures vibrant color, abundant blooms, and strong stems. In cool climates, it can tolerate more sun; in hot climates, it will require more shade, particularly in the afternoon.

Invincibelle® Spirit II hydrangea will grow to 3-4′ tall and wide and is hardy in USDA zone 3 to 9.

Gardeners – Another thing to be thankful for.

“A society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in.”

~A Greek Proverb