Panicle Hydrangea Hydrangea paniculata 'Ruby'
ABOUT
The Hydrangea paniculata 'Ruby' is a deciduous shrub known for its striking flower displays. It boasts large cone-shaped flower clusters that start out a creamy white color and gradually transition to a deep ruby pink as the season progresses, providing a multi-tonal effect on the same plant. The transition often starts at the base of the flowers, moving toward the tips. The leaves are ovate and medium green, providing a lush backdrop for the flowers. The bloom period for 'Ruby' is long, typically starting in mid-summer and continuing into the fall when the foliage can also develop reddish or burgundy tinges, adding to the plant's appeal. The flowers are dense and can be quite large, making this shrub a focal point in gardens. It's well-suited for use as a solitary specimen, in mass plantings, and as a component of mixed borders.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Hydrangeaceae.
Synonyms
Panicle Hydrangea, Peegee Hydrangea, Ruby Hydrangea.
Common names
Hydrangea paniculata 'Ruby'.
ToxicityTo humans
Hydrangea is known to contain compounds that can release cyanide when ingested. While poisoning is rare, if large quantities of hydrangea leaves, buds, or flowers are consumed, symptoms may include gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting and diarrhea, along with more severe reactions like depression, breathing difficulties, and lethargy. Ingesting parts of the hydrangea plant can potentially lead to cyanide toxicity, but due to the bitter taste, ingestion is typically self-limiting.
To pets
Hydrangea is also toxic to pets, such as dogs and cats. The toxic principle is similar to that affecting humans, involving cyanide release upon ingestion of plant parts. If a pet consumes hydrangea, symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and depression. In some cases, more severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing and increased heart rate may occur. Pet owners should be cautious and prevent their pets from accessing and ingesting hydrangea plants.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
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
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Produces large, showy flowers that can enhance the beauty of gardens and landscapes.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers a long blooming period from summer to fall, providing visual interest across seasons.
- Versatility: Adapts well to a variety of soil types and conditions, and can be planted in different garden designs, from formal to cottage gardens.
- Ease of Care: Typically low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once established, which makes it suitable for both experienced and novice gardeners.
- Pollinator Attraction: Attracts butterflies and bees, which are beneficial for pollination and the health of the ecosystem.
- Color Variety: Depending on the pH of the soil, the flowers can change color, adding variety and a dynamic element to the garden space.
- Structural Enhancement: Can be used as a hedge or to create vertical structure in landscaping due to its upright growth habit.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The dried flowers of the Hydrangea can be pulverized and used as a natural dye for fabric and paper, producing beautiful shades of blue, pink, or purple depending on the pH of the substance used during the dyeing process.
- Hydrangea wood is hard and dense, making it suitable for creating small carved items such as jewelry, beads, or intricate figurines for arts and crafts.
- The large, showy blooms can be used as natural bowls or containers for serving dry snacks at parties once the pistils and stamens are removed.
- Pressed Hydrangea flowers can be used in decorative arts, especially in creating ornate bookmarks, greeting cards, or picture frame decorations.
- The vivid colors of Hydrangea blooms can be captured in high-resolution photographs and used in graphic design, offering natural and appealing imagery for various visual projects.
- Leaves from the Hydrangea, when dried, can be incorporated into potpourri mixtures to contribute bulk and color variance.
- When cultivating a fairy or miniature garden, the Hydrangea's distinct flower heads can serve as natural scale-sized trees or shrubs to enhance the magical aesthetic.
- During artistic flower arranging competitions, Hydrangea flowers can be used to provide volume, texture, and a splash of color, which can contribute to an overall winning design.
- The sturdy stems of Hydrangea can be used in making small wreaths or other craft frameworks upon which other materials can be affixed.
- In the practice of ikebana (Japanese flower arranging), Hydrangea stems can play a significant role due to their ability to bend gracefully, contributing to the art form's emphasis on shape, line, and form.
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 Emotions: Hydrangeas are often associated with genuine and deep feelings, expressing an individual's desire to understand someone on a profound level.
- Gratitude: The lavish blooms of the hydrangea represent appreciation and thankfulness, making it a perfect gesture to show gratitude.
- Apology: In some contexts, hydrangeas signify an apology or a request for forgiveness, possibly because of their lush and generous appearance.
- Boastfulness or Vanity: In certain cultures, the hydrangea can also symbolize boastfulness or vanity due to its showy and abundant flowers.
- Perseverance: The robust nature of Hydrangea paniculata 'Ruby' signifies perseverance, as this particular variety can withstand a variety of climates and remains beautiful through the changing seasons.
WaterPanicle hydrangeas, including the 'Ruby' variety, should be watered to keep the soil moist but not soggy. During the first growing season, establishing a deep and extensive root system is crucial, so water thoroughly at least once a week, providing about 1-1.5 gallons for each plant. Once established, panicle hydrangeas are relatively drought tolerant but will benefit from additional watering during periods of extreme heat or dry spells. During the active growing season in spring and summer, watering may need to increase to twice a week depending on weather conditions. In fall, begin to taper watering to help the plant harden off for winter.
LightThe Panicle Hydrangea 'Ruby' thrives best in an area that receives full sun to partial shade. Ideally, the plant should be placed in a spot where it can enjoy morning sunlight and be protected from the harsh afternoon sun, especially in hotter climates. A location with dappled shade in the afternoon is optimal to protect the leaves and blooms from intense sunlight.
TemperaturePanicle hydrangeas, like 'Ruby,' prefer a temperature range between 65°F and 75°F for optimal growth. They can tolerate a minimum temperature in the winter of about -30°F to -20°F, which corresponds to the USDA hardiness zones 3 through 8. The maximum summer temperature should not exceed 95°F for prolonged periods, as excessive heat can stress the plant.
PruningFor the Panicle Hydrangea 'Ruby,' pruning is essential to maintain its shape and promote a strong framework for the heavy blooms. It is best pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth starts, as it blooms on new wood. Thin out the oldest stems and cut back the remaining stems to a height of about 24 inches to encourage new, robust growth. Prune annually to rejuvenate the plant and ensure abundant flowering.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Panicle Hydrangea is one that is rich in organic matter, well-draining, and has a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. To create an ideal soil mix, combine garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or coarse sand in equal parts to ensure proper drainage and aeration. Maintaining the appropriate pH is crucial for optimal growth and flower color.
RepottingPanicle Hydrangea, when grown in a container, should be repotted every 3 to 5 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a larger pot with fresh soil mix as described and ensure it has adequate drainage holes.
Humidity & MistingPanicle Hydrangea thrives in average household humidity levels but can benefit from slightly higher humidity. Aim for a humidity level around 40-60% for optimal growth, avoiding conditions that are too dry or excessively humid.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Panicle Hydrangea near a bright window and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant Panicle Hydrangea in partial shade to full sun with moist soil.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleHydrangea paniculata 'Ruby', commonly known as Panicle Hydrangea 'Ruby', begins its life cycle when a seed germinates in moist, well-drained soil in late spring or early summer. The seedling then develops into a young plant with a strong root system and foliage during its first growing season. As the hydrangea matures, it enters a vigorous growth stage, producing sturdy stems and large leaves; during this stage, the plant focuses on vegetative growth to establish itself. After a few years, the hydrangea reaches maturity and starts to flower, usually from mid-summer to late fall; the flowers emerge as creamy white and transition to a ruby-red or pinkish color as they age, giving the cultivar its name 'Ruby.' Annually, after the blooming period, the plant enters a phase of dormancy during the colder months when it sheds leaves and conserves energy. In the following spring, the cycle repeats with the hydrangea resuming growth, flowering, and eventually producing seeds if the flowers were pollinated, which continues the species' life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
The most popular method of propagating Hydrangea paniculata 'Ruby', commonly known as panicle hydrangea or panicle hydrangea 'Ruby', is through softwood cuttings. This typically takes place in late spring or early summer when new growth is still tender but has started to harden slightly. To propagate, a gardener would take a cutting of about 5 to 6 inches (approximately 12.7 to 15.24 cm) long from a healthy branch, ensuring it includes several pairs of leaves. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is often dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting is then placed in a well-draining soil mix, kept moist, and covered with a plastic bag or dome to maintain humidity. Roots generally begin to form within a few weeks, after which the new plants can gradually acclimate to less humid conditions before being planted in their final location.
