At a diminutive 2-3' tall and wide, Fire Light Tidbit panicle hydrangea (H. paniculata) might be the smallest variety yet, but this little beauty never skimps on a big flower show! Like the original Fire Light hydrangea, it is covered in large mophead flowers that are among the earliest to appear each summer. As they age, they turn a vivid pink, and finally red as autumn comes along. The blooms almost completely obscure the foliage when it flowers, creating an attention-getting display that most plants its size could only hope to match.What makes Fire Light Tidbit different than other panicle hydrangeas? - Very small size saves space, can be planted just about anywhere- Early to bloom- Colorful fall foliage Details: Name: Hydrangea paniculata 'SMNHPK' pp#32,512, CBRAFHardiness: USDA zones 3-8 Height + width: 2-3' 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 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: Early-mid summer Bloom color: White, aging to blush pink. That color persists through frost. 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: As one of the smallest panicle hydrangeas to date, Firelight Tidbit hydrangea can be used in many different ways: plant in beds and borders, add to a flower or perennial garden, incorporate into landscaping, or grow in containers. A pair would be very nice on either side of a front door or porch!
