Hydrangea Puffer Fish

PUFFER FISH® Hydrangea………..Hydrangea paniculata 'NCHP1' PP# 35,316; CBRAF

Common Name: Panicle Hydrangea

Think of Puffer Fish® panicle hydrangea (H. paniculata) as a larger, more puffed up Bobo®, with fluffy white blooms that engulf the entire plant, nearly obscuring the foliage. The flowers open and mature to a pure white. As the blooms age, they turn lime green and, for a bit of surprise, a fresh sprig of white flowers emerges from the tip of the panicle. A tight, compact habit with stems strong enough to hold its blooms. This NCSU hydrangea has all the talent needed to be a first-class landscape performer.

Soil Adaptable to most any soil except very wet or excessively alkaline soils.

Pruning In late winter or early spring, cut back by about one-third its total height, just above a set of large buds. This ensures that the growth for the season will come vigorous buds lower on the plant and also serves to remove any remaining dried blooms. Alternatively, cut back in autumn once the plant has gone completely dormant. May be cut back harder if desired, though this tends to produce stems that are unable to achieve maximum stem strength the following season.

Uses Specimen; mixed borders; mass plantings. Makes a good hedge or screen. Excellent for cut flowers, both fresh and dried.

Growing Tips Panicle hydrangeas are the most sun tolerant hydrangeas and are also resistant to wilting. In cooler climates, full sun is recommended for best stem strength and flower set. We have heard reports of success with 'Limelight' in Dallas, TX, and Orlando, FL with afternoon shade and well-drained soil. Flower color is unaffected by soil chemistry. If flowers turn brown and dry instead of aging to pink or red, this indicates that the plant needs more water or that nighttime temperatures are too high.

USDA Zone: 3 – 8 (-40°F/-40°C)

Exposure: Full sun, Part sun

Height: 3 – 5'

Width: 3 – 5'

Finish Time: 1 season

Type: Deciduous

Bloom Time: Summer

Flower Color: White

Foliage Color: Green