Description
Common Name: Panicle hydrangea, ‘Sweet Summer’
‘Sweet Summer,’ or Bokrathirteen, is a compact cultivar of H. paniculata that typically grows to only 4-5′ in height. This cultivar is noted for producing dense, broad-conical panicles (to 5″ long) of white and pink flowers, with each flower emerging white in mid-summer and shifting to a soft pink into September. Unlike most other H. paniculata, ‘Sweet Summer’ has strong, stiff stems that hold the flower panicles upright with no drooping. Flower panicles may be cut for fresh arrangements or for drying, or may be left on the plant where they will persist well into winter.
Panicle hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata) is a rapid-growing, upright, and somewhat coarsely textured, deciduous shrub. It can be trained as a small single trunk tree, but it is best grown as a large, multi-stemmed shrub. This is one of the most winter hardy of the hydrangeas and thrives in urban conditions. Bloom occurs on current season’s growth from mid summer into fall. In full bloom, the weight of the flower panicles will typically cause the branches to arch downward.
This wonderful, versatile shrub is sure to be a great addition to any garden space!
Size: 4″ Potted Plant (1 quart)
Height: 4.0-5.0’
Spread: 4.0-6.0’
Flower Description: Flowers form as long panicles (upright and broad cone-like structures up to 5″ long) that contain both fertile and sterile florets, but ‘Sweet Summer’ produces mostly the showy sterile ones. Flowers emerge white in summer and gradually change to a soft, light pink, resulting in a striking two-tone appearance that gradually changes during the course of the bloom. Panicles may be cut for fresh arrangements or for drying.
Light Requirement: Full Sun to Partial Shade.
Soil Type:
Best grown in organically rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils.
Hardiness Zones: 5,6,7,8,9,10
Attributes: Compact Size, Attracts butterflies, Attracts Bees, Deer Resistant, Showy Flowers
Care: Easy Care, Pruning as needed in late winter to early spring, Mulch to reduce water loss
