Hydrangea paniculata Quick Fire Fab®

Blooming about a month before other hardy hydrangeas, Hydrangea paniculata Quick Fire Fab® is a bushy, deciduous shrub boasting a profusion of large, conical panicles densely packed with delicate, cruciform flowers in midsummer to fall. Held on strong stems, the blossoms emerge coconut-lime, turn blush pink, then bright pink, then red as the season progresses, creating a bicolor effect. Quick Fire Fab provides over 3 months of flowers and color in the landscape. Adding early summer color to the garden, this hardy hydrangea makes a great vertical accent in borders and decorative containers.

• Grows with an upright habit to 6-8 ft. tall (180-240 cm) and 5-6 ft. wide (150-180 cm).
• Performs best in sun to partial shade in humus-rich, moist, well-drained soils. Afternoon shade in hot summer climates is recommended.
• Easy-to-grow plant with reliable flowering and flower color regardless of soil PH.
• Mass in mixed shrub borders for dramatic summer blooms, in front of walls, fences, taller shrubs, and trees. Great for city gardens, cottage gardens, or containers. Panicles may be cut for fresh arrangements or for drying.
• Best if pruned back in late winter or early spring. Blooms occur on the current season’s growth, ensuring reliable flowering.
• Watch for botrytis blight, bacterial wilt, leaf spot, rust, and mildew.
• Propagate by softwood cuttings.
• Hydrangea paniculata species is native to southern and eastern China, Korea, Japan, and Russia.
• Foliage can aggravate skin allergies. Mild stomach upset possible if ingested.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.