Hydrangea paniculata Berry White® – 'Berry White' Hydrangea

'Berry White' Hydrangea is a shrub that offers an evolving and absolutely stunning colour show throughout the summer and fall. Its main benefit is its bloom that transitions through a succession of rich hues, from pure white to pink, then to an intense raspberry red. Supported by sturdy stems, its enormous conical flowers ensure a flamboyant and long-lasting display, making it a spectacular addition to any landscape.

Characteristics

• Foliage: It develops deciduous, dark green foliage that perfectly showcases the different shades of the flowers.
• Flowering: The show begins in mid-summer with very large, conical flower panicles. They emerge a brilliant white, then the base tinges with pink, a colour that progressively moves up the flower, eventually transforming it into a very dark pinkish-red in the fall. Since it blooms on new wood, its flowering is reliable, regardless of the winter's severity.
• Light: It thrives in full sun or partial shade. Good sun exposure guarantees the richest fall colours for its flowers.
• Habit: It forms a shrub with a bushy, upright, and rounded habit.
• Growth: Fast. It reaches a height of 1.8 to 2.1 m (6-7 feet) with a spread of 1.2 to 1.5 m (4-5 feet).
• Soil: It adapts well to most soil types but prefers rich, well-drained soil that retains moisture well.
• Hardiness: Extremely hardy, it faces Zone 3 winters without any problem.
• Resistance: It develops very sturdy stems that easily support the weight of its large flowers, even when laden with rain.

Uses

• Types of Use: It is magnificent as a standalone specimen to fully appreciate its colour change. It is also very effective for creating a spectacular flowering hedge or at the back of a border.
• Ornamental Features: Its flowers, which transform over several months, offer unparalleled visual interest. They are excellent for creating large bouquets of fresh or dried flowers.

Care

• Watering: Maintain consistently moist soil throughout the growing season, especially in hot weather. Applying a mulch is recommended.
• Fertilizing: Apply a fertilizer for flowering shrubs or compost in early spring to support its abundant flowering.
• Pruning: In early spring, prune the shrub by about one-third of its height. This pruning encourages the formation of stronger stems and larger flowers.
• Planting: Plant it in the spring or fall in well-drained soil.
• Winter Protection: No protection is required for this very hardy hydrangea.