Deciduous & Flowering Shrubs
Limelight panicle hydrangea
Hydrangea paniculata 'Limelight'
‘Limelight’ is an upright, deciduous panicle hydrangea with large flower clusters that open pale green in summer, turn creamy white, and age pink toward fall. At maturity, expect a shrub about 6 to 8 feet tall and wide; allow that space when placing it along a hedge or near a path. Its flowers can also be cut fresh or dried. Choose full sun to partial shade, with reliable moisture in sunnier spots. Moist, well-drained soil suits it, while persistent winter sogginess can trouble the roots. Prune in late winter or early spring, before new growth carries the season’s large flowers.
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At a glance
- Mature height
- About 6–8 feet
- Mature spread
- About 6–8 feet
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Hardiness
- USDA zones 3–8
The right plant, the right place
Make room for something good.
Allow for its mature width when planting a hedge or placing it near a path. Flower clusters can be cut fresh or dried.
Where to plant
Give this shrub about 6 to 8 feet of room to mature. Choose full sun to partial shade, and keep soil reliably moist where it receives strong sun.
Through the seasons
Large flower clusters open pale green in summer, turn creamy white, and age pink toward fall. The shrub loses its leaves in winter.
Southwest Washington gardens
Give it a good start.
In Southwest Washington, choose a site that drains through wet winters and water during dry summer periods. Avoid spots where heat reflects onto the leaves.
Soil, drainage & water
Plant in moist, well-drained soil. Water during dry periods, especially in sunny sites, and avoid ground that stays soggy.
A little care goes a long way
Growing well, season after season.
Prune in late winter or early spring, before new growth develops. Flowers form on current-season growth, so heavy summer pruning can reduce the display.
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.
Fungal leaf spots
Brown, black, or gray leaf spots, sometimes with reddish or purple edges; severe spotting may lead to yellowing and leaf drop.
Help your plant thrive
Water at soil level, allow air to circulate, and remove fallen leaves and diseased material.
Leaf scorch
Dry brown leaf tips, margins, or blotches, sometimes following wilting.
Help your plant thrive
Keep soil moist, mulch the root zone, and avoid reflected heat and poorly drained sites.
Reduced flowering
Few or no flower clusters.
Help your plant thrive
Prune in late winter or early spring and avoid heavy summer pruning.
A little more inspiration
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Pacific ninebark
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Explore this plantGood gardens start with a conversation
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