Hydrangea paniculata Sundae Fraise

Hydrangea paniculata ‘Sundae Fraise’ is a compact, bushy, deciduous shrub boasting loose, fluffy, conical flower heads at the tips of gracefully arching branches in summer. Opening creamy white in mid-summer, the florets turn to strawberry-pink as they age before finally taking on rich pinkish-red tones as fall approaches. The large blossoms retain their red color for 3-4 weeks before turning brown. 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.
• 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 possible if ingested.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.