Hydrangea paniculata Pinky Winky®

Noted for its glorious flower heads, Hydrangea paniculata Pinky Winky® features massive, dense, conical, bicolored flowers, up to 12 in. (30 cm), atop strong, purplish-red stems that do not flop. Opening lime green in midsummer, the sterile florets turn white before quickly changing to deep pink as the season progresses. Held upright, the spicy scented blossoms stand out well against the foliage of oval, yellow-green leaves. Strong, easy to care and long-lived, this ornamental shrub is perfect to create a very showy flowering effect. Panicles may be cut for fresh arrangements or for drying or may be left on the plant where they will persist well into winter.

• Winner of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society
• Fast-growing, this deciduous shrub has an upright, slightly spreading habit and grows up to 6-8 ft. tall (180-240 cm) and 8-10 ft. wide (240-300 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 coastal gardens. 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.
• 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 is possible if ingested.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.