Hydrangea paniculata 'Phantom'

A magnificent shrub, Hydrangea paniculata 'Phantom' has huge white flower heads, the largest we have discovered so far on this species. We have a spectacular group of five plants next to the entrance to the gardens here and this year they produced a superb display of flower heads, some up to 45 cm long. 

The flower bracts are pale green in early summer, turning white from July to August, finally darkening to pink before falling in September. These bracts stand out well against the pretty green leaves.

To attain the largest possible flower heads, Hydrangea paniculata 'Phantom' should be pruned back hard to around 20 - 30 cm (1 ft) above ground level and mulched yearly.

• Position: Full sun or light, dappled shade.
• Soil: Well drained, fertile soil.
• Hardiness: Hardy.
• Flowering Period: August - September.
• Rate of Growth: Moderate.
• Habit: Hydrangea paniculata 'Phantom' grows to be a medium sized, branching shrub which can be pruned hard if required.
  • Height: 2.5 m (8 ft) if left unpruned. (up to 1.2 m if pruned yearly)
  • Spread: 2.5 m (8 ft) if left unpruned. (up to 1.2 m if pruned yearly)

• Pruning: Prune Hydrangea paniculata 'Phantom' back to a bud, 20 - 40 cm above the ground each March. This will keep the plant from getting to large and increase the size of the flower heads.