Hydrangea paniculata 'Strawberry Sundae'

Hydrangea paniculata 'Strawberry Sundae': Cream-to-Strawberry Colour in a Compact Shrub

Hydrangea paniculata 'Strawberry Sundae' is a First Editions® panicle hydrangea that brings a sweet colour shift to the summer garden. The flower panicles open creamy-white, soften to pink, then deepen to strawberry-red as the season progresses. Blooming from mid-summer into fall, it offers long-lasting colour on a compact, well-proportioned plant that looks polished in borders and foundation plantings. The overall effect is bright and cheerful, with blooms that keep your landscape looking lively well into late season.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 4–5’
• Spread: 3–4’
• Flower Colour: Creamy-white, aging to pink, then strawberry-red
• Flowering Period: Mid-summer to fall
• Foliage: Green, deciduous shrub foliage
• Sunlight Requirements: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soil, enriched with organic matter

Uses and Benefits: A strong choice for mixed shrub borders, foundation plantings, and feature groupings where you want dependable colour that lasts into fall. Its compact size makes it easy to repeat through a design or tuck into smaller beds without crowding. The blooms are excellent for cutting, both fresh for summer arrangements and dried for long-lasting indoor interest.

Care Instructions: Water regularly during the first season to establish strong roots, then water deeply during hot, dry stretches for best flowering and foliage quality. Prune in late winter or early spring to shape and encourage vigorous new growth, since panicle hydrangeas bloom on new wood. Mulch helps conserve moisture and keeps the root zone cooler in summer. A spring top-dressing of compost supports strong growth and abundant bloom.

History: Valued for its compact habit and signature colour progression from creamy-white to strawberry-red, Hydrangea paniculata 'Strawberry Sundae' has become a favourite for gardeners who want reliable panicle hydrangea performance with a playful, late-season finish in the First Editions® lineup.

Final Thoughts: For a compact hydrangea that starts crisp and creamy, then finishes with a rich berry blush, Strawberry Sundae brings a cheerful, long-running show that feels tailor-made for Canadian gardens.