Hydrangea paniculata 'Firelight' is a show stopping panicle hydrangea known for its full flower heads that emerge creamy white and transition through soft pink to deep pomegranate red by late summer. Its strong upright stems prevent flopping even under heavy bloom weight, while its compact well branched habit makes it perfect for small gardens and focal points. This cultivar also stands out for its early flowering and exceptional fall coloration.
Height & Spread: 48 - 72 in x 60 - 72 in
Bloom Time: Mid summer to early fall
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained soil rich in organic matter
Watering Needs: Moderate; consistent moisture preferred during active growth
Deer Resistance: Occasionally browsed but not preferred by deer
Native Status
Hydrangea paniculata is native to eastern Asia. 'Firelight' is a cultivated variety bred for enhanced color performance and garden adaptability.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Attracts honeybees and bumblebees to fertile florets throughout its bloom cycle.
Butterflies
- Provides nectar for butterflies such as Eastern Tiger Swallowtail and Painted Lady.
Birds
- Dried flower heads offer late season cover and seed debris attracts small ground feeding birds like juncos and sparrows.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 60 - 72 in apart for mature growth and airflow in borders or foundation plantings.
Landscape Placement:
- Use as a specimen shrub, hedge, or mass planting for dramatic multi season impact. Combines well with ornamental grasses and other sun loving perennials.
Companion Plants
- Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' - Adds vertical form and golden seed heads that complement hydrangea blooms late into the season.
- Perovskia atriplicifolia (Russian Sage) - Wispy texture and blue tones cool the saturated reds of 'Firelight'.
- Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah' - Burgundy tinged blades and airy seed plumes mirror and extend the color palette of 'Firelight'.
- Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' - Purple spikes provide early contrast and attract pollinators in overlapping bloom time.
- Geranium 'Rozanne' - Sprawling violet blue flowers soften the base of shrubs and fill space between woody stems.