The Season of the Panicle Hydrangea
Along with the changing colors of the foliage, sequenced with the cooling weather and shortening days, the persistent flowers of the hydrangeas appropriately transform into striking hues to become the landscape’s most picturesque plant. Perhaps no shrub in Newport’s gardens is more striking right now than the omni-present panicle hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata). Flowers emerge with true white sepals as July gets underway, steadily fading to a rose red or pink. Long lasting flowers is a characteristic that separates Hydrangea paniculata from other summer flowering shrubs, including many (not all) hydrangea varieties whose florets start to brown and senesce.
Hydrangea paniculata is an Asiatic native that can grow to over 20 feet tall. Over the last 20-30years, the plant has experienced an explosion in popularity, as cultivars unrecognizable from the species wow gardeners with great aesthetics and performance. Large and colorful flowers, a compact habit, and fast growth make culture enjoyable and easy. Cultivars such as ‘Limelight’, Pinky Winky™, and Quickfire™ are popular and proven forms that really stun with their summer and fall flower show. The diversity of blooms is fantastic, from dense, sepal composed masses, to airy spikes with abundant true (fertile) flowers. ‘Grandiflora’ also known as the Pee Gee hydrangea, is the old standby, easily noticed when taking on a weeping shape under the weight of its own floral fiesta. Pinky Winky™ is a fantastic selection with early pink color, a compact habit and strong stems that hold the conical flowers upright. Many new plants for adventurous gardeners to try are becoming available. Strawberry Vanilla™ is not that new (patented in 2010) but is starting to win people over with its upgraded flower size and color. Massive flowers will weigh down the stems.
Hydrangea paniculata flowers on new wood, so rejuvenation pruning in late winter to early spring is key to get the most bang for your buck. Growth is fast, and plants display exceptional durability and toughness. Hardiness is excellent, it seems like you can go as north as you want to with this shrub.
Be sure to lookout for these beautiful plants around Newport before frost!
