Hydrangea Polar Bear

A smaller paniculate hydrangea with big flowerheads, Hydrangea paniculata Polar Bear is a medium-sized to tall, deciduous shrub with sturdy brown stems which support the large flowerheads with ease. The leaves are toothed, ovate and mid-green, colouring attractively in autumn. The conical flower heads, 12-16/30-40cm long, open lime-green, turning white, and fading to pale pink as the nights grow cooler. This shrub is tolerant of higher temperatures. Hydrangea Polar Bear can be pruned back to a couple of buds from the woody framework to 5/1.5m in early spring before bud-burst, and the flowers will be larger; if left to grow naturally, minimal pruning is required. Leave the dead flowers over winter to protect new buds.

Site: Sheltered
Soil: Fertile, moist but well drained, humus-rich, acid to neutral soil
Position: Full sun or partial shade; good in dappled shade
Season of Interest: July to September; autumn colour
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Height: 8 (2.5m) Spread: 8 (2.5m) if left unpruned