Hydrangea paniculata Quick Fire®

Blooming about a month before other hardy hydrangeas, Hydrangea paniculata Quick Fire® is a bushy, deciduous shrub boasting a profusion of large, airy panicles, 6 in. long (15 cm), in midsummer to fall. Held on strong stems, the blossoms change color as they mature, gradually turning from white to deep pink as the season progresses. Adding early summer color to the garden, this hardy hydrangea makes a great vertical accent in borders and decorative containers.

• Grows with a rounded habit to 6-8 ft. tall and wide (180-240 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.
• 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.