Strawberry Vanilla Hydrangea, Vanilla Strawberry Hydrangea, Vanille Fraise Hydrangea, Hydrangea 'Vanille Fraise', Panicle Hydrangea 'Vanille Fraise', Paniculate Hydrangea 'Vanille Fraise', Hydrangea paniculata 'Vanilla Strawberry', Hydrangea paniculata 'Renhy'
Hydrangea paniculata Vanilla Strawberry, commonly known as Vanilla Strawberry Hydrangea, is a stunning deciduous shrub prized for its unique and eye-catching flower clusters that transition from creamy white to soft pink and finally to rich strawberry red.
Vanilla Strawberry Hydrangea is also known as Strawberry Vanilla Hydrangea, Vanille Fraise Hydrangea, or Hydrangea paniculata ‘Renhy’.
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 Vanilla Hydrangea is characterized by its large, conical flower heads held upright on red stems. The blooms emerge in mid-summer, starting as creamy white, transitioning to delicate pink, and ultimately deepening to a vibrant strawberry red as they mature. The impressive size of the flower clusters adds a dramatic touch to any landscape, making it a stunning focal point in gardens.
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 Vanilla 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 Vanilla generally grows 6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters) tall and 4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters) wide. Its size makes it ideal for a privacy hedge, specimen plant, or mass plantings.
The most captivating feature of this panicle hydrangea is its loose, fluffy, pyramid-shaped flower heads, which bloom from mid-summer to fall. Initially, the blooms are creamy white, transitioning to strawberry-pink and finally taking rich pinkish-red tones as autumn approaches before fading to beige. The large blossoms retain their red color for 3-4 weeks before turning brown.
This hydrangea blooms on the current season’s growth, ensuring reliable flowering.
The dark green, oval-shaped leaves provide a lush backdrop to the stunning blooms. The foliage typically remains healthy throughout the growing season.
Strawberry Vanilla 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 Vanilla 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.
Strawberry Vanilla 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.
The Strawberry Vanilla Hydrangea typically grows 6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters) tall and 4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters) wide. Its upright growth habit makes it an excellent choice for providing structure in garden landscapes.
Yes, Strawberry Vanilla Hydrangeas prefer full sun to partial shade. Ideally, they thrive in locations that receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. However, in extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade can help protect the plants from scorching and enhance bloom quality.
The best place to plant Strawberry Vanilla Hydrangeas is in a location with well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. They do well in loamy or sandy soils rich in organic matter in areas with good air circulation.
| 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 | 6' - 8' (180cm - 240cm) |
| Spread | 4' - 5' (120cm - 150cm) |
| Spacing | 60" (150cm) |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Dried Arrangements, Cut Flowers, Showy |
| Tolerance | Salt |
| Attracts | Butterflies, Bees |
| Garden Uses | Beds And Borders, Hedges And Screens |
| Garden Styles | Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden, City and Courtyard, Coastal Garden |
| 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 | 6' - 8' (180cm - 240cm) |
| Spread | 4' - 5' (120cm - 150cm) |
| Spacing | 60" (150cm) |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Dried Arrangements, Cut Flowers, Showy |
| Tolerance | Salt |
| Attracts | Butterflies, Bees |
| Garden Uses | Beds And Borders, Hedges And Screens |
| Garden Styles | Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden, City and Courtyard, Coastal Garden |
How many Hydrangea paniculata Vanilla Strawberry™ do I need for my garden?
| Plant | Quantity | |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrangea paniculata Vanilla Strawberry™ | 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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