Something Special in the World of Hydrangeas

Pinky Winky – Panicle Hydrangea Tree
(Hydrangea paniculata ‘Pinky Winky’)

Pinky Winky has an unusual name, and an even more unusual flower. The large white panicles open in mid to late summer, and as summer turns to fall the florets at the base of the panicles turn pink. The flower panicles continue to grow, producing new white florets at the tip. The result is spectacular two-toned flower panicles that can reach up to 16 inches in length! Adaptable to most soils and both sun and shade, Pinky Winky will thrive in most gardens.

Characteristics & Plant Needs: Height: 72″ to 96″ ◦ Spacing: 84″ to 108″ ◦ Spread: 72″ to 96″ ◦ Flower Colours: Two-toned pink and white ◦ Foliage Colours: Dark Green ◦ Habit: Upright ◦ Blooms on New Wood ◦ Bloom Time: Mid Summer – Early Fall ◦ Exposure: Part Sun / Sun ◦ Watering: Average ◦ Hardiness Zones: 3-8.

Adaptable to many soils, moderate moisture required. Blooms regardless of climate, soil, pH or pruning. Prune in late winter/early spring. Fertilize in early spring with a slow release fertilizer specialized for trees and shrubs.

Fire Light – Panicle Hydrangea Tree
(Hydrangea paniculata ‘Fire Light’)

Fire Light is the standard to measure all panicle hydrangeas. The plant it is highly regarded for its huge, long blooming full flower heads and sturdy, strong stems. Blooms emerge creamy-white and age to a vivid red for lots of summer colour. It makes a great cut flower, fresh or dried, and can be used as a hedge, specimen, or incorporated into flower gardens and foundation plantings. Fire Light hydrangea is a true show off in the summer garden!

Characteristics & Plant Needs: Height: 72″ to 96″ ◦ Spacing: 72″ to 96″ ◦ Spread: 72″ to 96″ ◦ Flower Colours: Pink, red and white ◦ Foliage Colours: Green ◦ Habit: Upright ◦ Blooms on: New Wood ◦ Bloom Time: Early to Late Summer ◦ Exposure: Part Sun to Sun ◦ Watering: Average ◦ Hardiness Zones: 3-8.

Best pruned in early spring. Branches should be cut back by about one third their total length. This plant tolerates a wide range of conditions, but does not grow well in soggy soil. A good 2-3″ layer of shredded bark mulch over the roots is very beneficial. Can be fertilized in early spring with a granular fertilizer formulated for woody plants, like a rose fertilizer.

The Quick Fire hydrangea blooms about a month before any other panicle hydrangea – usually in early July. Flowers open pure white then turn pink, and will be an extremely dark rosy-pink in the fall, accompanied by excellent coloured fall foliage. The flower colour on the Quick Fire hydrangea is not affected by soil pH. Blooms on this super-hardy and easy to grow hydrangea are produced on new wood, which means that flowers are present even after the harshest winters.

Characteristics & Plant Needs: Height: 72″ to 96″ ◦ Spacing: 96″ to 120″ ◦ Spread: 72″ to 96″ ◦ Flower Colours: Pink and white ◦ Foliage Colours: Green ◦ Habit: Upright ◦ Blooms on: New Wood ◦ Bloom Time: Early Summer to Late Fall ◦ Exposure: Part Sun to Sun ◦ Watering: Average ◦ Hardiness Zones: 3-8.

Quick Fire hydrangeas can grow in well-drained soils. Blooms emerge on new wood, meaning they can be pruned in spring and will still bloom that season. It is recommend to prune back by about one-third their total height in early spring as the new growth is beginning to emerge on the stems. This will ensure the season’s growth comes from the heavier, thicker buds further down the plant.

Phantom Hydrangea Tree
(Hydrangea paniculata ‘Phantom’)

The Phantom Hydrangea is noted for its dense conical blooms that reach up to fifteen inches. The colours provide creamy white blooms in the summer and as fall nears, they turn a pale and dark pink. It thrives in rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils and tolerates heat and urban environment. Afternoon shade in hot summer climates is recommended.

Characteristics & Plant Needs: Height: 72″ to 120″ ◦ Spacing: 72″ to 120″ ◦ Spread: 72″ to 120″ ◦ Flower Colours: Pink and white ◦ Foliage Colours: Green ◦ Habit: Upright ◦ Blooms on: New Wood ◦ Bloom Time: Mid Summer to Late Fall ◦ Exposure: Part Sun to Partial Sun ◦ Watering: Average ◦ Hardiness Zones: 3-8.

Caring for your Hydrangea paniculata ‘Phantom’ is simple. It loves sun or partial sun, can tolerate heat and it needs rich soil that is well drained. In warmer climates afternoon shade is recommended. It will thrive in all soils with varying pH levels. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring. The water needs of the Hydrangea paniculata ‘Phantom’ are average but will require more water in times of drought. The plant can be fertilized in the spring. In cooler climates, it should be mulched at the base and all dead foliage removed after the flowering season has ended.