Strawberry Sundae Hydrangea, Hydrangea Sundae Fraise, Panicle Hydrangea Sundae Fraise, Paniculate Hydrangea Sundae Fraise, Hydrangea paniculata 'Strawberry Sundae', Hydrangea paniculata 'Rensun'
Hydrangea paniculata Strawberry Sundae, commonly known as Strawberry Sundae Hydrangea, is a popular deciduous shrub prized for its fluffy, conical flower clusters that start as white and gradually transition to strawberry pink and then rich pinkish-red 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)
Strawberry Sundae Hydrangea is a captivating deciduous shrub known for its stunning, large flower clusters that transition beautifully from creamy white to soft pink, eventually deepening to a rich strawberry red. This hydrangea variety stands out not just for its unique color gradient but also for its compact growth habit and impressive blooming capacity, making it a popular choice among gardeners looking to add vibrant color to their landscapes.
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.
Strawberry Sundae 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.
Strawberry Sundae Hydrangea generally grows 4-5 feet (1.2 to 1.5 meters) tall and 3-4 feet (0.9 to 1.2 meters) wide. This compact size makes it ideal for smaller gardens or urban landscapes where space is limited, allowing gardeners to enjoy its beautiful blooms without overwhelming the area.
The hallmark of the Strawberry Sundae Hydrangea is its large, conical flower clusters. 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.
Strawberry Sundae Hydrangea typically blooms from mid-summer to fall, offering an extended display of color that enhances the landscape during warmer months.
This hydrangea blooms on the current season’s growth, ensuring reliable flowering.
The dark green, oval-shaped leaves provide a lush backdrop to the vibrant flowers. The foliage typically remains healthy throughout the growing season.
Pinky Winky Hydrangea is hardy in USDA zones 3-8, making it suitable for a wide range of climates. It also tolerates salt and thrives in urban areas.
Strawberry Sundae 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. With its compact habit, this hardy hydrangea adds striking flowers to small gardens and is perfect for patio containers. 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.
Strawberry Sundae 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.
Strawberry Sundae Hydrangea typically grows 4-5 feet (1.2 to 1.5 meters) tall and 3-4 feet (0.9 to 1.2 meters) wide.
Strawberry Sundae Hydrangeas can tolerate full sun but thrive best in partial sun to light shade. Ideally, they should receive at least 6 hours of sunlight each day, especially in cooler climates.
| Hardiness |
3 - 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 | Hydrangea, Panicle Hydrangea |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Summer (Mid, Late), Fall |
| Height | 4' - 5' (120cm - 150cm) |
| Spread | 3' - 4' (90cm - 120cm) |
| Spacing | 36" - 48" (90cm - 120cm) |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Dried Arrangements, Cut Flowers, Showy |
| Tolerance | Salt |
| Attracts | Butterflies, Bees |
| Garden Uses | Beds And Borders, Patio And Containers |
| Garden Styles | Traditional Garden, City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage |
| Hardiness |
3 - 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 | Hydrangea, Panicle Hydrangea |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Summer (Mid, Late), Fall |
| Height | 4' - 5' (120cm - 150cm) |
| Spread | 3' - 4' (90cm - 120cm) |
| Spacing | 36" - 48" (90cm - 120cm) |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Dried Arrangements, Cut Flowers, Showy |
| Tolerance | Salt |
| Attracts | Butterflies, Bees |
| Garden Uses | Beds And Borders, Patio And Containers |
| Garden Styles | Traditional Garden, City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage |
How many Hydrangea paniculata Strawberry Sundae do I need for my garden?
| Plant | Quantity | |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrangea paniculata Strawberry Sundae | N/A | Buy Plants |
Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.
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.
Join now and start creating your dream garden!
Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.
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.
Join now and start creating your dream garden!
