Hydrangea plant named ‘Annie's Blue’

Abstract

A new and distinct Hydrangea serrata plant is provided that was discovered as a newly found seedling in a cultivated area. Attractive large blue to mauve lacecap flowers are formed that tend to be more blue when grown in acidic soils and more mauve when grown in neutral to basic soils. Strong sturdy branches are formed. Delicate yellow-green foliage is displayed. The plant is more floriferous than the ‘Blue Billow’ cultivar (non-patented in the United States) and the foliage is smaller than that of such comparative cultivar. Winter hardiness to U.S.D.A. Zone No. 6b has been observed. The plant is well suited for providing attractive ornamentation in the landscape. The cut flowers also can be included in cut flower arrangements.

I claim: 
     
       1. A new distinct  Hydrangea serrata  plant that displays the following combination of characteristics:
 (a) displays in abundance attractive large blue to mauve lacecap flowers that tend to be more blue when grown in acidic soils and more mauve when grown in neutral to basic soils, 
 (b) displays attractive delicate yellow-green foliage, 
 (c) displays sturdy branches, 
 (d) is winter hardy to U.S.D.A. Hardiness Zone 6b, and 
 (e) is well suited for growing as attractive ornamentation in the landscape; 
 
       substantially as illustrated and described.