Get fired up for summer with Fire Light panicle hydrangea! This wonderful Proven Winners hydrangea is positively covered with cone-shaped mophead flowers in early summer, and as they age, they take on bright pink and red tones. This nicely rounded, densely-branched panicle hydrangea provides months of color and beauty in the garden. Imagine it as a flowering hedge, or planted as a stunning specimen. It's so easy to grow that even if you've never planted anything before, you'll be raking in the compliments!What makes Fire Light different than other panicle hydrangeas?- Blooms in early summer, for a longer display- Outstanding flower production- Develops red color earlier than others, for more color over a longer period Details: Name: Hydrangea paniculata 'SMNHPFL' pp#25,135, cbr#5160Hardiness: USDA zones 3-8 Height + width: 6-8' Light: Full to part sun Soil: Any well-drained soil will do. Though dry conditions are unlikely to harm an established plant, prolonged drought will cause flowers to brown and wilt instead of develop a good pink/red color. Pruning: Blooms on new wood; prune back by one-third in late winter/early spring for better habit and a slight improvement in stem strength. Water: Average water needs. Does not tolerate wet conditions. Fertilizer: Fertilize once in early spring with a rose fertilizer if desired. Bloom time: Summer Bloom color: The color the blooms turn is a genetic trait that develops with the natural aging of the cells in the florets, and is not influenced by any condition in the soil, like pH level. You can’t change panicle hydrangeas’ color by treating with aluminum sulfate or planting in acidic soil – they will always stay in the pink/red range. Uses: Fire Light hydrangea makes an excellent flowering hedge to screen off an unsightly view or develop privacy. It is highly effective as a specimen, planted on its own, or used as a backdrop for a flower garden.
