Panicle Hydrangea ‘Rensun’ STRAWBERRY SUNDAE™ (Hydrangea paniculata) is a popular hybrid deciduous shrub.  It typically grows 4 to 5 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide. The flower panicles start white and age to pink. This Hydrangea is appropriate for USDA zones 4 to 8.  A newer Hydrangea cultivar with consistently compact form and prolific blooms. 

Family: Hydrangeaceae

Scientific Name:  Hydrangea translates to “water vessel,” referring to the typical shape of fruits in this genus. The species name paniculata references the individual flowers being arranged in panicles (branched clusters). 

Flowers: Large cone-shaped panicles emerge on new wood. They start out white and age to a dark pink or strawberry red starting from the base of the panicle and moving upward, resulting in a flower that appears to be pink frosted with white for a time. 

Fruits: Due to the flowers being sterile, this plant does not bear fruit. 

Fall Foliage: Yellow – fall color is not considered a major feature of this plant. 

Problems: No serious insect or disease problems. Some possible pests and diseases may include mildew, bud blight, bacterial wilt, leaf spot, and blister rust.

Landscape Uses: Used as a medium-sized flowering shrub for full sun to part shade. Adds late summer interest as it flowers at that time. As a smaller panicle hydrangea, it is also used in containers. Makes an excellent addition to the mixed border or when planted in masses/drifts in the landscape. 

Location in Pittsburgh Botanic Garden: A grouping can be found along the western edge of the Weisbrod Learning Pavilion at the north end of the Garden of the Five Senses.