PlantFiles: Smooth Hydrangea
Hydrangea arborescens 'Bella Anna'

The stems of the shrub are stronger than on Invincibelle. I appreciate the tie to breast cancer research for invincibelles but I feel this is a cheap ploy often to lure buyers into feeling better about their purchases when only cents go towards any benefit cause. Here you buy a Bella Anna solely on its own merrits, not to sell Invincibelle or any cause short, as it is truly a high quality and unique plant itself.

The stock of Bella Anna I have seen at one location had very dark blue/green leaves. The leaves alone, even if it never flowered, were enough for me to buy one. I have seen the leaf in a lighter green at another nursery. I don't know what causes this variation.

The flowers are a magenta/pink color when opening. I'd say they are brighter, more rich in color than Invincibelle. Bella Anna fades do a lighter pink of course but they still maintain a pink coloration whereas Invincibelles fade more white.

As for the first year in my yard this plant of course didn't grow much as it should have been rooting. It performed admirably however for continued blooming. Just for those curious if they don't pay much attention to insects but this plant has been japanese beetle resistant for me.