Panicled hydrangea Hydrangea paniculata 'Bombshell' (PBR)

Names

• Family

  Hydrangeaceae.

• Synonyms

  Panicled Hydrangea, Panicle Hydrangea, PeeGee Hydrangea, Bombshell Hydrangea.

• Common names

  Hydrangea paniculata 'Bombshell' (PBR).

Toxicity

• To humans

  The panicle hydrangea, specifically the Hydrangea paniculata 'Bombshell' (PBR), is considered mildly toxic to humans if ingested. The plant contains compounds called cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide in the body. Symptoms of poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion could lead to more serious symptoms such as dizziness, rapid pulse, or increased body temperature due to cyanide’s potential to interfere with oxygen transport in the blood. However, serious cases of poisoning in humans are rare, as considerable amounts of plant material must be consumed to cause these effects.

• To pets

  The panicle hydrangea, specifically the Hydrangea paniculata 'Bombshell' (PBR), is toxic to pets if ingested. Like in humans, the plant contains cyanogenic glycosides which can lead to cyanide poisoning when the plant parts are chewed and digested. Symptoms of poisoning in pets can include gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting and diarrhea, depression, and lethargy. In more severe cases, cyanide poisoning may result in difficulty breathing, increased heart rate, and seizures. It is important to prevent pets from ingesting parts of this plant and to seek veterinary care if a pet is suspected to have eaten any quantity.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)

• Spread

  3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)

• Plant type

  Shrub

• Hardiness zones

  3-8

• Native area

  Asia

General Benefits

• Aesthetic Appeal: Adds visual interest to gardens with its profuse, white flowers that turn pinkish as they age.
• Compact Size: 'Bombshell' is a smaller cultivar, suitable for smaller gardens or spaces.
• Seasonal Interest: Provides a long blooming period from mid-summer to fall.
• Attracts Pollinators: Blooms are attractive to butterflies and bees, supporting local ecosystems.
• Low Maintenance: This cultivar requires minimal pruning and is relatively easy to care for.
• Versatility: Can be used in a variety of garden designs, including borders, containers, and as a specimen plant.
• Cold Hardy: It is resilient in colder climates and can withstand lower temperatures than other hydrangea species.
• Adaptable: Tolerates a range of soil types, although it prefers well-drained, moist soil.
• Deciduous Shrub: Offers seasonal changes in the garden with its foliage and flower display.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Hedge or privacy screen: Due to its full and bushy growth habit, Hydrangea paniculata 'Bombshell' can be planted in a row to create a natural boundary or screen, offering privacy in a garden.
• Pressed flower art: The flowers of the Hydrangea can be pressed and dried to be used in crafting unique botanical artwork or creating personalized greeting cards.
• Photography subject: With their eye-catching blooms, these hydrangeas are often a favorite subject for photographers looking to capture the essence of summer and fall gardens.
• Educational tool: In schools or educational gardens, the Hydrangea can be used to teach students about plant biology, propagation, and the importance of pollinators.
• Seasonal decorations: The dried flower heads can be spray painted and used in festive decorations or wreaths, especially during autumn and winter.
• Dye production: The flowers may be used to naturally dye fabrics or yarns, although this is less common with the Hydrangea paniculata 'Bombshell' compared to other varieties.
• Theme gardens: These plants can be featured in theme gardens, such as a Victorian or cottage garden, adding to the overall aesthetic and feel of the space.
• Culinary presentation: While not edible, the blooms can be used as a non-toxic garnish for food presentation at high-end events or in culinary photography, so long as they are removed before consumption.
• Ice decorations: The blooms can be frozen in ice cubes or larger blocks to create decorative elements for summer parties or events, offering a unique way to chill drinks.
• Feng Shui applications: Some practitioners of Feng Shui might use the plant in their garden designs to bring about positive energy, although this is not scientifically supported.

Feng Shui

The plant Hydrangea is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The plant Hydrangea is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Gratitude and Apology: Hydrangeas can symbolize an expression of thanks or an apology, making them a good choice for a reconciliation or a thank-you gift.
• Understanding: They can also represent a deep understanding between people, suggesting a connection that is empathetic and caring.
• Heartfelt Emotions: The lavish blooms of the hydrangea reflect abundance and prosperity, and they are often used to convey sincere and heartfelt emotions.
• Vanity: In certain contexts, hydrangeas can symbolize vanity or boastfulness, possibly due to their showy and abundant blossoms.
• Perseverance: Hydrangeas have the ability to thrive and bloom in various soil conditions, which can symbolize persistence and endurance through difficult circumstances.