Pinky Winky Hydrangea, Hydrangea Pinky Winky®, Panicle Hydrangea Pinky Winky®, Paniculate Hydrangea Pinky Winky®, Hydrangea paniculata ‘DVPPINKY’ PP16166
Hydrangea paniculata Pinky Winky, commonly known as Pinky Winky Hydrangea, is a popular deciduous shrub prized for its massive, dense, conical, bicolored flower clusters that start as lime-green and gradually transition to white and then deep pink in the fall. Its adaptability and long blooming season make it a favorite among gardeners.
This hydrangea is a member of the Hydrangeaceae family, which includes several popular garden varieties like Hydrangea macrophylla (Bigleaf Hydrangea), Hydrangea paniculata (Panicle Hydrangea), Hydrangea arborescens (Smooth Hydrangea), Hydrangea quercifolia (Oakleaf Hydrangea), Hydrangea serrata (Mountain Hydrangea), and Hydrangea anomala petiolaris (Climbing Hydrangea)
Pinky Winky Hydrangea is a striking deciduous shrub renowned for its large, conical flower clusters that start as creamy white and transition to a beautiful deep pink at the tips as they mature. This hydrangea variety boasts an upright growth habit, making it an eye-catching addition to any garden.
While Hydrangea paniculata is native to eastern Asia, particularly regions of Japan and China, it has become a staple in gardens across various climates. It thrives in well-drained soils and adapts well to different light conditions. This hydrangea is often found on woodland edges and along riverbanks in its native habitat.
Pinky Winky Hydrangea is a deciduous shrub with an upright, rounded habit. Its sturdy, woody stems provide a robust framework for the large flower clusters, ensuring they remain upright and visually striking.
Pinky Winky Hydrangea generally grows 6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters) tall and 8-10 feet (2.4-3 meters) wide. Its substantial size makes it an excellent choice for creating a statement in borders, hedges, or as a standalone specimen plant.
The most captivating feature of Pinky Winky Hydrangea is its large, conical flower panicles, which can measure up to 12 inches (30 cm) in length. Opening lime green, the sterile florets turn white before quickly changing to deep pink as the season progresses. Held upright, the spicy-scented blossoms are held atop strong, purplish-red stems that do not flop.
Pinky Winky Hydrangea typically begins to bloom in mid-summer, with flowers continuing to develop and change color into the fall. The long-lasting blooms provide a continuous display of color, making it an attractive choice for gardeners who wish to enhance their landscapes with late-season interest.
This hydrangea blooms on the current season’s growth, ensuring reliable flowering.
The leaves are yellow-green and oval-shaped, providing a lush backdrop to the stunning blooms. The foliage typically remains healthy throughout the growing season.
Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
Pinky Winky Hydrangea is hardy in USDA zones 4-8, making it suitable for a wide range of climates. It also tolerates salt and thrives in urban areas.
Pinky Winky Hydrangea is a versatile shrub that fits beautifully into various landscaping applications. It works well as a focal point in borders with companion plants, as a specimen plant, flowering hedge, or in mass plantings for stunning visual impact. The blooms also make excellent cut flowers, adding elegance to floral arrangements. They can also be dried and preserved for use in wreaths and home decor, allowing you to enjoy their beauty year-round.
Hydrangea paniculata attracts pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, due to its abundant flowers. The blooms provide nectar, supporting local ecosystems and enhancing biodiversity in the garden.
According to the ASPCA, Hydrangea is considered toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. While it may not pose a significant risk in small amounts, ingestion of any part of the plant can lead to symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. It is advisable to keep all hydrangea plants out of reach of curious pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
Hydrangea plants are not reliably deer-resistant.
Pinky Winky Hydrangea is not considered invasive. It is a well-behaved shrub that maintains its size and shape without spreading aggressively, making it an excellent addition to a variety of garden settings.
Stunning floral display, long blooming season, pollinator-friendly, and versatile landscape uses.
Prefers full sun to partial shade, ideally receiving at least 6 hours of sunlight daily for optimal blooming. Afternoon shade in hot summer climates is recommended.
Requires regular watering, especially during dry spells. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, as overwatering can lead to root rot.
Thrives in well-drained, loamy soil. Adding organic matter can improve soil structure and fertility. Unlike Hydrangea macrophylla and Hydrangea serrata, the soil pH does not affect the flower color.
Use a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring as new growth begins. Fertilize again in mid-summer to support ongoing blooming. Everything you need to know about fertilizing hydrangeas.
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Cut back last year’s growth to about 12-18 inches to promote larger flower clusters. Learn how to prune your hydrangea to maximize flower production.
Can be propagated through cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Use stem cuttings with at least two nodes and root in moist potting soil. Discover how to propagate your hydrangea for more beautiful blooms.
Watch for pests like aphids and spider mites. Powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot can occur in humid conditions. Regular monitoring and proper care can mitigate these issues. Popular pests and diseases affecting hydrangea plants.
Pinky Winky Hydrangea typically grows 6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters) tall and 8-10 feet (2.4-3 meters) wide. Its substantial size makes it suitable for borders, hedges, or as a standalone specimen in the garden.
Pinky Winky Hydrangeas thrive in full sun to partial shade. Ideally, they prefer at least 6 hours of sunlight per day, as this exposure promotes abundant flowering and healthy growth. However, in extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade can help protect the plants from excessive heat.
Yes, it is advisable to prune Pinky Winky Hydrangea in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This helps to shape the plant, remove any dead or damaged wood, and encourages more vigorous blooming. Pruning is generally less severe for this variety, as it blooms on new wood.
The best place to plant a Pinky Winky Hydrangea is in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Choose a location that receives full sun for optimal flowering but provides some afternoon shade in hotter regions. It is also ideal to plant it in an area where it has enough space to grow and spread, away from competing roots of other plants.
| Hardiness |
4 - 8 |
|---|---|
| Heat Zones |
1 - 8 |
| Climate Zones | 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, A2, A3 |
| Plant Type | Shrubs |
| Plant Family | Hydrangeaceae |
| Genus | Hydrangea |
| Common names | Panicle Hydrangea, Hydrangea |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Summer (Mid, Late), Fall |
| Height | 6' - 8' (180cm - 240cm) |
| Spread | 8' - 10' (240cm - 3m) |
| Spacing | 96" - 120" (240cm - 3m) |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Dried Arrangements, Cut Flowers, Fragrant, Plant of Merit, Showy |
| Tolerance | Salt |
| Attracts | Butterflies, Bees |
| Garden Uses | Beds And Borders |
| Garden Styles | Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden, Coastal Garden, City and Courtyard |
| Hardiness |
4 - 8 |
|---|---|
| Heat Zones |
1 - 8 |
| Climate Zones | 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, A2, A3 |
| Plant Type | Shrubs |
| Plant Family | Hydrangeaceae |
| Genus | Hydrangea |
| Common names | Panicle Hydrangea, Hydrangea |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Summer (Mid, Late), Fall |
| Height | 6' - 8' (180cm - 240cm) |
| Spread | 8' - 10' (240cm - 3m) |
| Spacing | 96" - 120" (240cm - 3m) |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Dried Arrangements, Cut Flowers, Fragrant, Plant of Merit, Showy |
| Tolerance | Salt |
| Attracts | Butterflies, Bees |
| Garden Uses | Beds And Borders |
| Garden Styles | Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden, Coastal Garden, City and Courtyard |
How many Hydrangea paniculata Pinky Winky® do I need for my garden?
| Plant | Quantity | |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrangea paniculata Pinky Winky® | N/A | Buy Plants |
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Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
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