Hydrangea paniculata 'Little Lime Punch' is a vibrant compact hydrangea that transitions from lime green to pink and finally rich red as the season progresses. Its dense mophead blooms sit atop strong stems creating a long lasting display from midsummer into fall. Ideal for small gardens or container use, it adds a multi seasonal color progression to sunny borders and landscapes.
Height & Spread: 36 - 60 in x 36 - 60 in
Bloom Time: Midsummer to fall
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained, enriched with organic matter
Watering Needs: Moderate; keep consistently moist, especially in heat
Deer Resistance: Occasionally browsed but generally deer resistant when mature
Native Status
Hydrangea paniculata is native to Asia and not native to North America. However, it is widely grown in temperate climates and thrives in cultivated landscapes.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Attracts native bumblebees and honeybees to its fertile florets during peak bloom.
Butterflies
- Draws summer butterflies like Swallowtails and Painted Ladies for nectar and landing surfaces.
Beneficial Insects
- Encourages hoverflies and parasitic wasps which help control garden pests.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Allow 36 - 60 in spacing to accommodate the mature rounded habit and airflow.
Landscape Placement:
- Perfect for sunny borders, mixed cottage gardens, foundation plantings, and patio containers where color transition can be appreciated.
Companion Plants
- Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' - Vertical ornamental grass plumes frame the hydrangea and add movement.
- Physostegia virginiana 'Miss Manners' - Upright white flower spikes complement the rounded hydrangea blooms in late summer.
- Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' - Golden daisies echo the warm tones of the hydrangea as blooms mature to pink and red.
- Heuchera 'Plum Pudding' - Deep purple foliage provides striking contrast to the hydrangea’s color changing blooms.
- Hosta 'Halcyon' - Cool blue foliage grounds the planting and provides textural balance.