Panicle Hydrangea Hydrangea paniculata Magical Candle = 'Bokraflame' (PBR) (Magical Series)
ABOUT
The Hydrangea paniculata Magical Candle, known commonly from the Magical series as the Magical Candle, features an attractive display of flowers that transition through colors as they age. Starting off, the blooms are initially lush, creamy white, and as they mature, they develop a rich pink hue which adds to the visual interest of the plant. The large, conical flower clusters create a striking focal point in garden spaces and are a favorite among gardeners for their long-lasting and evolving beauty. The leaves of the Magical Candle are a rich, dark green which creates a lovely backdrop for the bright blossoms. This contrast not only highlights the flowers but also gives the plant a lush, full appearance even when it's not in bloom. Overall, the Magical Candle presents a vibrant and changing palette, making it a versatile and appealing addition to a variety of outdoor spaces.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Panicled Hydrangea, Panicle Hydrangea, Hardy Hydrangea, Limelight Hydrangea, Peegee Hydrangea
Common names
Hydrangea paniculata Magical Candle = 'Bokraflame' (PBR) (Magical Series).
ToxicityTo humans
Hydrangea, including Hydrangea paniculata or panicle hydrangea, is known to be mildly toxic if ingested due to the presence of cyanogenic glycosides found in the plant's leaves and flower buds. If parts of the plant are eaten, it can lead to symptoms such as stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In rare cases or with significant ingestion, more severe symptoms might occur such as dizziness, rapid heartbeat, or convulsions. It is generally recommended to avoid consuming any part of the hydrangea plant and to keep it out of reach of children who might be tempted to eat the flowers or leaves.
To pets
Panicle hydrangea, or simply hydrangea, is also toxic to pets such as cats and dogs. The plant contains cyanogenic glycosides which can lead to symptoms of poisoning if ingested by pets. These symptoms may include gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and depression. In severe cases, ingestion of the plant could potentially result in more serious effects like difficulty breathing, increased heart rate, and seizures. It is advisable to prevent pets from having access to hydrangeas and to seek veterinary attention if a pet is known or suspected to have ingested any part of a hydrangea plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters)
Spread
6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
China Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Flowers: The plant produces large conical white flowers that turn pink with age, adding visual appeal through the blooming season.
- Long Blooming Period: It has a long flowering period that typically spans from early summer to late autumn, providing extended garden interest.
- Easy to Grow: It is known for being easy to cultivate in a range of soil types and conditions, making it accessible for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Hardy: Hydrangea paniculata Magical Candle is quite hardy and can withstand cold temperatures, making it suitable for a variety of climates.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, the plant exhibits some drought tolerance, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Versatile: It can be used in mixed borders, as a specimen plant, or in mass plantings, offering a degree of versatility in landscaping.
- Wildlife Attraction: The flowers are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies, enhancing the biodiversity of the garden.
- Seasonal Interest: In addition to its flowers, it offers seasonal interest with its foliage that changes color in the fall.
- Low Maintenance: The plant generally requires minimal pruning and care, which is ideal for low-maintenance landscapes.
- Size and Shape: The shrub has an upright spreading habit that can fit well into garden designs without overwhelming the space.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Crafting dried flower arrangements: The blooms of Hydrangea paniculata can be dried and preserved to create long-lasting floral displays that maintain their shape and texture for extended periods.
- Photography subject: Due to their large conical flower heads, they are often used as a subject in botanical photography, offering a captivating visual with their dense clusters of florets.
- Education and research: These plants can be the focus of horticultural studies, allowing researchers to observe the effects of soil pH on bloom color and other growth characteristics.
- Seasonal celebrations: Their late blooming season allows them to be incorporated into fall decorations and themed events when other plants might not be in bloom.
- Culinary decoration: Although not edible, the blooms can be used as a non-toxic decoration for cakes and desserts during events, then removed before consumption.
- Color change demonstrations: Gardeners can use the Hydrangea paniculata to demonstrate how soil acidity affects the color of hydrangea blooms, which can be an educational tool for soil chemistry.
- Bonsai creation: The woody structure and attractive foliage make it a candidate for bonsai enthusiasts looking to shape miniature trees with ornamental appeal.
- Inspirational model for art: Artists often use blooms of the Hydrangea paniculata as a muse for paintings, sculptures, and other forms of art due to its distinctive and full appearance.
- Frost resistance studies: Hydrangea paniculata is known for its cold hardiness, making it interesting for horticulturalists and botanists interested in studying frost-resistant plants.
- Backyard wildlife habitat: The dense foliage and flowers provide shelter and landing spots for various insects and birds, supporting biodiversity in garden ecosystems.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Hydrangea is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Hydrangea is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Heartfelt and Sincere Emotions: Hydrangeas, including the Magical Candle variety, are often associated with genuine feelings, gratitude, and heartfelt emotions due to their lush and abundant flower heads.
- Grace and Beauty: The attractive appearance of the Magical Candle hydrangea, with its white to pale pink flowers, symbolizes grace, beauty, and poise.
- Apologetic Gestures: In some contexts, hydrangeas can represent an apology or a desire for forgiveness, making them suitable for giving after a misunderstanding or argument.
- Understanding: The full and rounded shape of Hydrangea Magical Candle's bloom is sometimes connected with comprehension and enlightenment, signaling a deep understanding between people.
- Abundance and Prosperity: Hydrangeas have opulent flower clusters that can suggest abundance and prosperity, reflecting the wish for wealth and plenitude in one's life.
- Frivolity or Boastfulness: In certain cultural contexts, hydrangeas may convey a more negative connotation, such as vanity or boastfulness, due to their showy nature.
WaterThe Peegee hydrangea, which is the common name for Hydrangea paniculata, prefers consistently moist soil, so water the plant thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. During the growing season, this may mean watering approximately every few days, depending on weather conditions. Supply the plant with about 1 gallon of water for each watering, ensuring it reaches the roots without oversaturating the soil, as this can lead to root rot. During the winter months, reduce watering as the plant requires less moisture when dormant.
LightPeegee hydrangeas thrive in areas where they can receive full sun to partial shade. They perform best with morning sunlight and some afternoon shade, especially in regions with hot summers. An ideal spot would provide around 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight, ensuring the plant receives the light it needs without being exposed to harsh late-day sun.
TemperaturePeegee hydrangeas are cold-hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from winter lows to summer highs. They can survive in temperatures as low as -30°F and as high as 95°F, though they prefer a temperate range between 60°F and 80°F for optimal growth. Protect them from extreme heat by providing afternoon shade and extra water during particularly hot days.
PruningPrune Peegee hydrangeas in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Pruning encourages healthy growth, removes dead or weak branches, and helps maintain the plant's shape. Cut back about one-third of the older stems to ground level to promote vigorous new growth. The best time for pruning is when the plant is dormant to prevent stress and ensure a bloom-filled season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Panicled Hydrangea (Magical Candle) thrives in moist, well-draining soil enriched with organic matter like compost or peat moss. A soil pH that is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 7.0, suits this plant best, enhancing nutrient availability and optimal growth.
RepottingPanicled Hydrangeas like Magical Candle do not typically need frequent repotting; once every 3-5 years or when the plant becomes root-bound is sufficient. Spring is the best time to repot to minimize stress on the plant.
Humidity & MistingPanicled Hydrangea (Magical Candle) prefers moderate humidity levels, roughly between 40% to 60%. While they are adaptable to different humidity conditions, they flourish in humidity levels that mimic their natural environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Bright, indirect light with adequate moisture.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade, well-drained moist soil.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleHydrangea paniculata 'Magical Candle', commonly known as panicle hydrangea, begins its life cycle with seed germination in spring, given appropriate conditions of moisture and temperature. After germination, it enters a vegetative state where the seedling establishes roots and shoots, eventually developing into a young plant with distinctive foliage. The plant matures over several years, developing a woody stem structure and branching habit typical for hydrangeas. During the growing season, usually in late spring to early summer, it enters the flowering stage, producing large, cone-shaped clusters of white flowers that can age to a pinkish hue as the season progresses. After blooming, the flowers may produce viable seeds in late summer or fall, which can disperse to propagate new plants. In winter, the plant becomes dormant, losing its leaves in colder climates, and conserving energy to restart the life cycle with the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Late winter to early spring
The Hydrangea paniculata 'Magical Candle', often known simply as Hydrangea, is commonly propagated through softwood cuttings. This method involves cutting a segment of new growth—usually 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) in length—that has not yet become woody. The best time to take these cuttings is in late spring or early summer when the plant's growth is most active. Each cutting should have several sets of leaves, and the bottom set of leaves should be removed. The base of the cutting is often dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development before being placed in a well-draining propagation medium. Keeping the cuttings under high humidity and with indirect light will foster root growth, establishing a new plant that can be transplanted to a more permanent location once rooted and stable.
