Panicle Hydrangea Hydrangea paniculata 'Floribunda'

Names

• Family

  Hydrangeaceae

• Synonyms

  Panicled Hydrangea, Panicle Hydrangea, Peegee Hydrangea

• Common names

  Hydrangea paniculata 'Floribunda'.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Panicled hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata 'Floribunda') contains compounds that can be toxic if ingested by humans. These include cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide into the body. Consumption of large quantities of plant material, particularly leaves or buds, might result in symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, and sweating. In severe cases, dizziness, confusion, increased heart rate, and convulsions could occur. Cyanide interferes with the body's ability to use oxygen, which can potentially lead to fatal respiratory failure if a significant amount is ingested. However, accidental poisoning is rare and typically requires ingesting a considerable amount of plant material.

• To pets

  Panicled hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata 'Floribunda') is also toxic to pets such as cats, dogs, and horses. This is due to the same cyanogenic glycosides found within the plant that affect humans. If pets ingest parts of the panicled hydrangea, they might experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, depression, and in some cases, more serious symptoms like cyanosis (blueish discoloration of the mucous membranes due to lack of oxygen), difficulty breathing, and increased heart rate. In extreme cases, seizures and coma could ensue, potentially leading to death if a substantial amount is ingested. Pet owners should prevent access to these plants to avoid possible poisoning.

Characteristics

• Life 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

  Asia

General Benefits

• Aesthetic Appeal: Hydrangea paniculata 'Floribunda', commonly known as Panicled Hydrangea, features large, showy flower clusters that can add dramatic beauty to gardens and landscapes.
• Variability in Color: The blooms can change color depending on soil pH, which allows for a variety of hues within the same plant, creating a visually appealing display.
• Seasonal Interest: This plant blooms in the summer and its flowers often last into the fall, providing a long season of visual interest.
• Attracts Pollinators: The flowers are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
• Adaptable to Various Soils: Panicled Hydrangea can adapt to a range of soil types, though it prefers well-drained, moist soils.
• Hardiness: It is a hardy plant that can tolerate cold temperatures, suitable for a variety of climates.
• Easy to Care For: This hydrangea is relatively low maintenance, requiring minimal pruning and care once established.
• Versatility in Landscaping: It can be used as a standalone accent plant, grouped in a border, or as part of a foundation planting, offering versatility in landscape design.
• Works as a Cut Flower: The blooms make excellent cut flowers for arrangements, lasting well in a vase.

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

• Hydrangea paniculata 'Floribunda', commonly known as Panicled Hydrangea, can be used for cut flowers in floral arrangements due to its showy and long-lasting flowers.
• Dried flower arrangements often incorporate Panicled Hydrangea blooms for their ability to retain shape and color after drying.
• The woody stems of mature shrubs can be used in garden construction for supporting lightweight climbing plants or as natural stakes.
• Deciduous foliage of the Panicled Hydrangea provides seasonal mulch as it falls, enriching the soil with organic matter.
• The bushy growth habit can be utilized for creating outdoor privacy screens or hedges in landscaping.
• Panicled Hydrangea can serve as a focal point in garden design, due to its large and striking flower clusters.
• In colder climates, the plant's ability to withstand snow can make it a practical choice for adding winter interest to gardens.
• The bountiful blooms are attractive to pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, making it a useful plant for supporting local ecosystems.
• During festive seasons, branches with blooms can be spray-painted and used for decorative purposes within homes or commercial spaces.
• The Panicled Hydrangea’s contrasting coarse texture can be used to juxtapose against fine-textured plants in the landscape for visual diversity.

Feng Shui

The Hydrangea is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Hydrangea is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Heartfelt Emotions: Hydrangeas commonly represent deep, heartfelt emotions due to their lush and abundant blooms.
• Gratitude and Apology: These flowers are often given as a way to express gratitude for understanding, or as an apology after a misunderstanding, reflecting the complexity of their flower heads.
• Boastfulness or Vanity: In some cultures, hydrangeas symbolize boastfulness or vanity due to their showy appearance and the abundance of flowers.
• Perseverance: Given their ability to thrive and adapt in various soil types, hydrangeas also stand for perseverance and determination to grow under different conditions.
• Femininity: With their delicate, round-shape flowers, hydrangeas may also represent femininity and the beauty of nature.