Hydrangea paniculata Little Quick Fire®

Blooming about a month before other hardy hydrangeas, Hydrangea paniculata Little Quick Fire® is a compact, bushy, deciduous shrub boasting a profusion of large, airy panicles, 6 in. long (15 cm), from mid-summer to fall. Held on strong dark red stems, the blossoms open creamy white, change to pale pink, and then deep pink and lilac as the season progresses. The foliage of ovate green leaves turns reddish purple in the fall. This dwarf hydrangea fits easily into any garden and patio container.

• Grows with an upright rounded habit to 3-5 ft. tall (90-150 cm) and 4-7 ft. wide (120-210 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 the current season’s growth, ensuring reliable flowering.
• Watch for botrytis blight, bacterial wilt, leaf spot, rust, and mildew.
• Propagate by softwood cuttings in early summer, or by hardwood cuttings in winter.
• Hydrangea paniculata species is native to southern and eastern China, Korea, Japan, and Russia.
• Foliage can aggravate skin allergies. Mild stomach upset IS possible if ingested.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.