Hydrangea paniculata 'Diamond Rouge' is a compact, bushy, deciduous shrub boasting large domed flower panicles, 6 in. long (15 cm), over a long season. Opening creamy white in mid-summer, the florets turn pink as they age, then intense raspberry red and finally wine red as fall approaches. Borne on strong, sturdy stems, the blossoms take on their red coloration earlier in the season than other pink hydrangea paniculata varieties. With its compact habit, this hardy hydrangea adds striking flowers to small gardens and is perfect for patio containers.

• Grows with an upright habit to 4-5 ft. tall (120-150 cm) and 3-4 ft. wide (90-120 cm).
• Performs best in sun to partial shade in humus-rich, moist, well-drained soils. Afternoon shade in hot summer climates is recommended.
• Easy-to-grow plant with reliable flowering and flower color regardless of soil PH.
• Mass in mixed shrub borders for dramatic summer blooms, in front of walls, fences, taller shrubs and trees. Great for city gardens, cottage gardens or containers. Panicles may be cut for fresh arrangements or for drying.
• Best if pruned back in late winter or early spring. Blooms occur on current season's growth, ensuring reliable flowering.
• Keep an eye out for bud blight, bacterial wilt, leaf spot, rust and mildew.
• Can cause mild stomach upset if ingested and contact with foliage may aggravate skin allergies.
• Propagate by softwood cuttings.
• Hydrangea paniculata species is native to southern and eastern China, Korea, Japan and Russia.
• Foliage can aggravate skin allergies. Mild stomach upset possible if ingested.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.