Deciduous & Flowering Shrubs

Quick Fire panicle hydrangea

Hydrangea paniculata 'Quick Fire'

Quick Fire is an upright panicle hydrangea whose white flower clusters turn pink as they age. This deciduous shrub generally matures at about 6–8 feet tall and may spread about 4–8 feet, so allow generous room in a border or flowering hedge. It blooms on current-season growth, giving Southwest Washington gardeners a late-winter pruning window. Plant it in full sun to partial shade, with relief from hot afternoon sun where leaves scorch. Rich, moist, well-drained soil and regular summer water support growth through the region's dry season. Its flower clusters can also be cut or dried for indoor use.

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At a glance

Mature height
About 6–8 ft
Mature spread
About 4–8 ft
Light
Full sun to partial shade
Hardiness
Generally USDA Zones 3–8

The right plant, the right place

Make room for something good.

Its upright form suits a flowering hedge, mixed border, or specimen planting. Flower clusters can be cut fresh or dried.

Where to plant

Allow space for a mature spread of up to about 8 feet and keep the planting area accessible for watering. Avoid cramped sites beside hot, reflective surfaces.

Through the seasons

Flower clusters open white and mature to pink. The shrub loses its leaves in winter.

Southwest Washington gardens

Give it a good start.

Panicle hydrangeas are suited to cultivation in the maritime Pacific Northwest. In Southwest Washington, plan for summer watering and watch for leaf scorch during hot, dry spells.

Soil, drainage & water

Plant in rich, moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly through dry summers, especially in exposed sites.

A little care goes a long way

Growing well, season after season.

Prune in late winter or early spring if shaping is needed. Quick Fire flowers on current-season growth, so removing only dead or broken stems is also an option.

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 develops on leaves.

Help your plant thrive

Remove affected fallen leaves and monitor the plant before considering treatment.

Fungal leaf spots

Brown or tan spots appear on leaves.

Help your plant thrive

Remove affected fallen leaves and monitor new growth for further spotting.

Leaf scorch and drought stress

Leaf edges turn brown and dry, especially during hot or dry weather.

Help your plant thrive

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

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