Strawberry Sundae Hydrangea Hydrangea paniculata Sundae Fraise = 'Rensun' (PBR)
ABOUT
The Hydrangea paniculata 'Sundae Fraise' – often referred to just as 'Sundae Fraise' hydrangea – is a flowering shrub known for its distinctive and attractive blooms. The plant features cone-shaped flower clusters that go through a delightful color transformation as they mature throughout the blooming season. Starting as creamy white, the flowers gradually take on a light pink hue and eventually develop deeper raspberry-pink tones as fall approaches, reminiscent of a melting strawberry sundae. Aside from the gorgeous blossoms, this hydrangea has a lush foliage backdrop of dark green leaves that contrast nicely with the pastel flowers. The leaves are pointed and toothed, providing a textural element to its overall aesthetic. The 'Sundae Fraise' hydrangea maintains a sturdy, upright form with branching that supports the weight of its large flower heads, and it blooms on new wood, ensuring a showy display year after year. This ornamental shrub is a favorite among gardeners and landscapers for its decorative appeal and color-changing flowers.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Strawberry Sundae Hydrangea, Sundae Fraise Panicle Hydrangea, Sundae Fraise Hydrangea
Common names
Hydrangea paniculata 'Rensun'
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Hydrangea paniculata Sundae Fraise = 'Rensun' (PBR) is Panicled Hydrangea. Panicled Hydrangea is not considered highly toxic to humans, but it can cause mild digestive distress if ingested due to the presence of compounds such as hydrangin. If significant amounts of any part of the plant are consumed, symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Contact with the sap may also cause skin irritation in some individuals.
To pets
The common name for Hydrangea paniculata Sundae Fraise = 'Rensun' (PBR) is Panicled Hydrangea. Panicled Hydrangea is considered mildly toxic to pets if ingested. The plant contains compounds like cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when chewed or digested. Symptoms of poisoning in pets can include gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting and diarrhea. In rare cases, more serious symptoms such as depression, lethargy, and confusion may occur if large amounts of the plant are consumed.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters)
Spread
4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Flowers: Hydrangea paniculata Sundae Fraise produces beautiful, large cone-shaped flower heads that change color over time—from white to a rich pinkish-red—adding visual appeal to gardens.
- Long Blooming Period: With a bloom time extending from midsummer to fall, this plant provides a long-lasting display of flowers, enhancing garden interest across seasons.
- Adaptable to Many Soils: This hydrangea is adaptable to various soil types, though it prefers well-drained, moist soils, making it a versatile choice for many garden settings.
- Cold Hardy: As a cold-hardy plant, it is capable of surviving in colder climates where other hydrangeas may not thrive, extending its growing range.
- Low Maintenance: Requiring minimal care beyond the occasional pruning to maintain shape and size, this hydrangea is ideal for gardeners looking for low-maintenance plants.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees and butterflies, promoting pollinator health and supporting local ecosystems.
- Useful in Landscaping: Excellent for use in borders, hedges, and as a focal point in garden designs, it offers structural variety and aesthetic beauty.
- Multiseason Interest: In addition to its flowers, the plant exhibits attractive foliage and, in some climates, vibrant fall leaf colors.
- Good for Cutting: The flowers are suitable for cutting and creating floral arrangements, bringing the beauty of the garden indoors.
- Durable: It is known for its durability and ability to withstand urban pollution, making it a good choice for city gardens.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photo Shoot Prop: The striking blooms of Hydrangea paniculata Sundae Fraise make an excellent prop or background for photographers seeking a romantic or dramatic visual effect.
- Dried Flower Arrangements: The flowers can be dried and used in long-lasting floral arrangements, adding texture and interest to home decor or special events.
- Educational Tool: Botany students can study the plant's progression from bud to bloom to learn about flowering plant life cycles and pollination strategies.
- Culinary Decoration: While not edible, the flowers can serve as non-toxic decorations to enhance the presentation of cakes and culinary displays at events.
- Artistic Muse: Artists may use Hydrangea paniculata Sundae Fraise as a subject for paintings or drawings due to their lush appearance and variety of hues.
- Color Inspiration: Designers can derive color palettes from the plant's blooms for fashion, interior design, or art projects.
- Horticultural Training: Used in pruning demonstrations, gardeners can learn how to maintain the shape and encourage blooming in woody plants.
- Wine Cellar Humidity Indicator: The blooms can absorb moisture and indicate excessive humidity in a space like a wine cellar by wilting or drooping.
- Ice Cream Garnish: Although the flowers are not to be eaten, they can briefly embellish serving dishes for ice cream or desserts during upscale dining experiences.
- Bee and Butterfly Gardens: The shrubs act as a lure for bees and butterflies, supporting the creation of pollinator-friendly spaces, which are essential for local ecosystems.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe panicled hydrangea is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe panicled hydrangea is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Understanding - Hydrangeas historically symbolize a deeper understanding, as they have an ability to absorb knowledge quickly, much like their own growth pattern.
- Gratitude - The lush, abundant blooms of the Hydrangea are often used to express thanks, making them a perfect gift to show appreciation.
- Heartfelt Emotions - With their rich and varied colors, hydrangeas frequently represent genuine, heartfelt emotions and can be given to convey sincerity.
- Apoology - In some contexts, hydrangeas can signify an apology, making them suitable for asking forgiveness, especially the "Sundae Fraise" with its soft, blushing flowers.
- Beauty - The distinctive beauty of the Hydrangea 'Sundae Fraise', with its shades of white, pink, and red, symbolizes the diverse beauty of nature.
- Boastfulness or Vanity - In some traditional symbolic meanings, hydrangeas can represent boastfulness or vanity due to their showy blooms.
- Femininity - The delicate colors and soft petals of the "Sundae Fraise" hydrangea often represent grace and femininity.
WaterThe Strawberry Sundae Hydrangea ('Rensun') should be watered deeply to ensure the root zone is thoroughly moistened; this typically requires around 1 inch of water per week. During hot or dry periods, increase watering to twice per week, targeting the base to avoid wetting the foliage excessively. Ensure that the soil has good drainage to prevent waterlogging. During winter or in rainy climates, reduce watering to prevent root rot. Regularly check the soil moisture, watering more frequently during dry spells and less during cooler, wet seasons.
LightThe Strawberry Sundae Hydrangea thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers a location where it can receive morning sunlight and afternoon shade, which helps protect the blooms from intense heat. At least 4 hours of direct sunlight is optimal for the best flowering, but avoid exposure to the harsh afternoon sun in hotter climates to prevent stress on the plant.
TemperatureThe Strawberry Sundae Hydrangea is hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as 0 to -10 degrees Fahrenheit. Ideal growing temperatures range from 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, encouraging optimal growth and blooming. Extreme temperatures above 95 degrees Fahrenheit may stress the plant, requiring additional care and possibly some shade.
PruningPrune the Strawberry Sundae Hydrangea in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Pruning is done to remove dead wood, shape the plant, and encourage strong stems that support the large flower panicles. Prune about one-third of the oldest stems to the ground to promote vigorous growth and rejuvenation of the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor the best soil mix for the Panicled Hydrangea, blend loamy soil with compost and peat to ensure good drainage and moisture retention. This species flourishes in soil with a pH of around 5.5 to 6.5, slightly acidic to neutral.
RepottingPanicled Hydrangea typically does not require frequent repotting and can often be done every 3 to 5 years or when the plant outgrows its current container.
Humidity & MistingPanicled Hydrangea thrives in average humidity levels; there is no need for high humidity, making it suitable for typical outdoor garden conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light and keep soil consistently moist.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade with moist, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA.
Life cycleThe life cycle of Hydrangea paniculata Sundae Fraise, commonly known as the 'Sundae Fraise' Hydrangea, begins with seed germination, which occurs when soil temperatures and moisture levels become suitable. The seedling stage follows, where the first true leaves develop, and the plant begins to establish its root system. As it enters the vegetative stage, the hydrangea experiences robust leaf and stem growth. During the flowering stage, typically in early summer, 'Sundae Fraise' hydrangeas produce large, white to pinkish conical flower panicles that attract pollinators and gradually deepen in color as they age. After pollination, seeds develop and mature into the fall season, when the plant begins to enter dormancy, shedding leaves and halting active growth as colder temperatures arrive. Finally, the hydrangea completes its life cycle with the seed dispersal stage, where mature seeds are spread to give rise to new plants in the following growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Late winter to early spring
The most popular method of propagation for the Hydrangea paniculata 'Sundae Fraise' is through softwood cuttings. This is typically done in late spring or early summer when the plant's new growth is still green and flexible. Gardeners will take cuttings about 6 inches (approximately 15 centimeters) long, cut just below a leaf node, and remove the bottom leaves. The cut stem is often dipped in rooting hormone before being placed in a moist potting mix. The pot with the cutting should then be covered with plastic to maintain humidity and kept in indirect light until roots develop, which can take several weeks. During this time, it's vital to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged to encourage root growth without causing rot.
