Hydrangea paniculata 'Quick Fire' is a vigorous early blooming panicle hydrangea prized for its quick transition from white to deep pink flowers. Extends the hydrangea season with upright cone shaped flower heads and rich fall color. Its bold floral shift makes it a dynamic presence in the landscape.
Height & Spread: 72 - 96 in x 60 - 84 in
Bloom Time: Early summer to fall
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist, fertile, well drained soils; benefits from compost enriched ground
Watering Needs: Moderate; regular moisture preferred in hot weather
Deer Resistance: Moderately deer resistant
Native Status
This cultivar comes from Hydrangea paniculata, native to eastern Asia. Bred for ornamental use in temperate gardens and landscapes.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Draws native bees and other pollinators to its fertile flowers early in the summer when few other shrubs are blooming.
Butterflies
- Attracts summer butterflies such as Eastern Commas and Silver Spotted Skippers seeking nectar during early bloom phases.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 60 - 84 in apart for mature shrubs to reach their full size and showiest flowering.
Landscape Placement
- Excellent as a specimen shrub, backdrop in borders, or in mixed hedgerows. Also ideal for extending seasonal color in foundation beds or large containers.
Companion Plants
- Pennisetum alopecuroides (Fountain Grass) - Adds soft movement and fall texture near bold hydrangea forms.
- Clethra alnifolia (Summersweet) - Brings fragrance, pollinator value, and fine foliage contrast in similar conditions.
- Spiraea japonica 'Gold Mound' - Offers chartreuse foliage and pink blooms that echo Quick Fire’s midsummer tones.
- Phlox paniculata 'David' - Delivers white midsummer blooms that align with the hydrangea’s early flower phase.
- Rosa 'Knock Out' - Provides continuous bloom and vivid color to complement the hydrangea’s changing hues.