Panicled Hydrangea
Hydrangea paniculata · Deciduous shrub or small tree, Broadleaf, Hardwood
Plant Family
Hydrangeaceae
Tree Category
Ornamental / Flowering Shrub
Variety / Cultivar
'Limelight' or standard species type
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 8
About This Tree
Multi-stemmed deciduous shrub or small trained tree featuring an upright, rounded, or vase-shaped form. Known for large, cone-shaped panicles of flowers that bloom in summer and often fade to pinkish or tan hues.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, opposite or whorled in groups of three, ovate to elliptic leaves, 3 to 6 inches long, with serrated margins, prominent veins, and a pointed tip. Medium to dark green in summer, turning yellow in fall.
Bark Characteristics
Thin, smooth, reddish-brown to grayish-brown bark on young stems, becoming slightly exfoliating and furrowed on older, mature stems.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Southeastern China, Japan, Korea, and Sakhalin
Growing Season
Spring leafing, summer flowering from July to September, autumn golden-yellow senescence, winter dormancy
Sunlight & Water Needs
Prefers full sun to partial shade. Requires consistent, moderate watering, especially during establishment, with preference for moist, well-draining soils.
Mature Size
Typically grows as a shrub 8 to 15 feet tall and wide, but can be pruned into a small single-stemmed or multi-stemmed tree up to 20 feet tall. Fast growth rate.
Special Characteristics
Highly valued for its reliable summer flower production, cold hardiness, tolerance of urban pollution, and ability to handle various soil types as long as they are not waterlogged.
Wildlife & Ecology
Attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies to its nectar-rich flowers. Provides minor nesting cover for small birds.