Incrediball Smooth Hydrangea

Incrediball® is the Proven Winners selection of smooth hydrangea sold as Hydrangea arborescens 'Abetwo'; its large flower heads open green, turn white and mature to jade green, while sturdy stems help keep them upright. The [official cultivar profile](https://www.provenwinnerscolorchoice.com/plant/incrediball-smooth-hydrangea/) lists a mature size of 4–5 feet tall and wide, USDA zones 3–8, and full sun to part sun, and notes that dried heads can remain for winter interest. ## Site and uses Plant in moist, well-drained soil and water during extended dry periods. The flowers are useful for cutting or drying, and the shrub suits borders, foundation beds, hedges and mass plantings. Flower color is stable across soil pH; the green and white stages are part of the normal bloom cycle. ## Pruning In early spring, when buds begin to swell, the breeder recommends cutting the plant back by about one-third and removing dead or damaged wood. Smooth hydrangea blooms on new growth, so this timing allows it to flower in summer. ## Breeder and patent Proven Winners identifies Tim Wood as breeder. The patent publication for the plant named 'Abetwo' is USPP20571P2, published December 15, 2009; [Google Patents](https://patents.google.com/patent/USPP20571P2/en) records the publication number and date. ## Maintenance Keep soil evenly moist but well drained, and prune in early spring as new growth starts. Leave mature flower heads through winter if you want their dried texture, then remove them during spring cleanup.