Invincibelle Mini Mauvette® Smooth hydrangea

The Invincibelle Mini Mauvette® Smooth hydrangea is characterized by its stunning and vibrant flower colors, predominantly in shades of pink and purple, set against a backdrop of lush green foliage. The leaves themselves are a vibrant green, providing a constant display of color even when the plant is not in bloom. This deciduous shrub falls into the short height category, with a garden height that ranges from 30 to 36 inches and a similar spread, ensuring a balanced and full appearance in the landscape.

The plant’s habit is mounded, creating a rounded and attractive shape that works well in various garden settings. It is particularly effective when used as a thriller in container plantings, where its bold colors and compact size can truly shine. The Invincibelle Mini Mauvette® is a continuous bloomer or rebloomer, which means it produces flowers consistently throughout its blooming season, from summer through fall. This long blooming period, coupled with the fact that deadheading is not necessary, makes it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners looking for long-lasting color with minimal effort.

1. Border Planting:

• Accentuating Garden Edges: Its compact size and rounded habit make it an excellent choice for bordering garden beds, pathways, or driveways, adding structure and color.
• Mixed Borders: Combine with other shrubs and perennials to create a layered and dynamic border.

2. Container Gardening:

• Patio and Balcony: Perfect for pots and containers, this hydrangea can bring a splash of color to patios, balconies, and other small outdoor spaces.
• Entrance Charm: Place in containers at entryways or along steps to welcome visitors with its vibrant blooms.

3. Cut Flower and Dried Flower Garden:

• Floral Arrangements: The flowers are suitable for both fresh and dried arrangements, making this plant a great addition to a cut flower garden.
• Crafts and Decor: Use the dried flowers for various crafts and home decor projects.

4. Edging Plant:

• Defining Spaces: Plant along the edges of garden beds or walkways to create a defined and polished look.
• Low Hedges: When planted in a row, it can form a low, informal hedge that adds structure without overwhelming the space.

5. Landscape Focal Points:

• Highlighting Areas: Use as a specimen plant in garden beds or lawn areas to draw attention and create a focal point.
• Theme Gardens: Incorporate into cottage, rustic, or woodland garden themes for a harmonious look.

6. Mass Planting:

• Ground Coverage: Plant in large groups to create a sea of color, especially effective in larger garden spaces.
• Visual Impact: Mass planting intensifies the visual impact of its flowers and creates a stunning display.

7. Specimen Plant:

• Solitary Showcase: Allow the plant to stand alone as a solitary showcase, highlighting its unique color and form.
• Garden Artistry: Use as a living sculpture within a garden, adding artistic value.

Planting:

• Location: Choose a location that receives part sun to full sun, with at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day.
• Soil: Ensure the soil is well-draining and enriched with organic matter. The plant is adaptable to various soil types.
• Spacing: Give the plant space to grow, placing it 2'6" - 3' apart from other plants to allow for proper air circulation.
• Planting Depth: Dig a hole as deep as the root ball and twice as wide. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
• Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil and give the plant a good start.

Care:

• Watering: Maintain consistent moisture, especially during the first growing season to establish a deep root system. Water more frequently in extreme heat or if the plant is in a container.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
• Pruning: Prune in early spring, cutting back about one-third of the plant’s height to encourage new growth and abundant blooming. This plant blooms on new wood, so pruning will not affect the flowering.
• Fertilizing: If desired, apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
• Protection: In colder zones (4 and 5), provide winter protection by covering the plant with burlap or a frost blanket during the coldest months.

Maintenance:

• Deadheading: Deadheading is not necessary for this plant, as it is a rebloomer and will continue to produce flowers throughout its blooming season.
• Disease and Pest Control: Keep an eye out for common hydrangea pests and diseases. Address any issues promptly to keep the plant healthy.
• Winter Care: Though the plant is hardy in zones 4-8, providing extra protection in winter will help ensure its vigor for the next growing season.