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Deciduous & Flowering Shrubs

Fraise Melba Panicle Hydrangea

Hydrangea paniculata 'Renba'

Fraise Melba panicle hydrangea is an upright, deciduous shrub with dense flower clusters that emerge pale green, turn white, then deepen to pink from the base upward. It generally reaches about 5 to 8 feet tall and 3 to 5 feet wide at maturity, so allow room beyond its early years. Its changing flowers suit a mixed border, a flowering hedge, or a single planting near a path. In Southwest Washington, give it full sun to partial shade and rich, moist, well-drained soil. Regular water through dry summers helps sustain growth and limits leaf scorch. Flowers form on new wood, allowing late-winter pruning.

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At a glance

Mature height
About 5–8 feet
Mature spread
About 3–5 feet
Light
Full sun to partial shade
Hardiness
Generally USDA Zones 3–8

The right plant, the right place

Make room for something good.

The upright form and changing flower color work in a mixed border or flowering hedge. Its panicles can also be cut or dried.

Where to plant

Leave about 3 to 5 feet of width and clearance for a shrub that may reach 8 feet tall. Choose a spot within reach of summer watering.

Through the seasons

Large panicles appear in late summer, shifting from pale green through white to deep pink as they mature.

Southwest Washington gardens

Give it a good start.

In Southwest Washington, summer dry spells can stress panicle hydrangeas even where winters are mild. Afternoon shade can reduce scorch in hotter exposures.

Soil, drainage & water

Plant in rich, moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly through dry summers, especially in a sunny position.

A little care goes a long way

Growing well, season after season.

Flowers form on new wood, so prune in late winter or early spring if shaping is needed. Remove dead or broken stems as needed.

Know what to look for

Common growing concerns.

Symptoms can have more than one cause. These notes are a starting point for observing your plant and improving its growing conditions.

Powdery mildew

A white, powdery coating appears on leaves.

Help your plant thrive

Allow air circulation, monitor foliage, and remove affected fallen leaves.

Fungal leaf spots

Distinct brown spots develop on leaves.

Help your plant thrive

Avoid wetting foliage when watering and clear fallen leaves.

Leaf scorch and drought stress

Leaf edges brown or leaves wilt during hot, dry periods.

Help your plant thrive

Water regularly during dry weather and provide relief from hot afternoon sun.

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