Hydrangea paniculata Hercules

Hydrangea paniculata 'Hercules' brings something very new to the range of paniculate hydrangeas: it is a relatively compact variety, well suited to small spaces, which astonishes with its oversized inflorescences and is convincing with its very sturdy stems that proudly carry them towards the sky, without bending under their weight. It reveals itself in summer, crowned with spectacular panicles that are full of flowers that are not quite white, shaded with very pale green and pink, and the shrub remains interesting until autumn, adorned with faded flowers that are not lacking in charm. To these exceptional ornamental qualities are added excellent hardiness and great ease of cultivation in sun or partial shade and in most soils. 

Hydrangea paniculata, also called Paniculate Hydrangea, is a species belonging to the Hydrangeaceae family native to the leafy forests of China and Japan. It is particularly hardy and tolerates the sun well, as well as slightly calcareous and even occasionally dry soils if they are deep.

This new 'Hercules' variety was obtained in the Netherlands after much cross-breeding and ruthless selection. This shrub shows an erect and bushy habit. The main branches are erect, while the secondary ones are slightly arched. At maturity, this variety will reach on average 1.75 m (5 ft 8 in) in all directions, with quite rapid growth. From August, numerous very dense, conical panicles, measuring up to 40 cm (15.7 in) in length, blossom on the year's shoots. They contain numerous florets tightly packed against each other. 'Hercules' has solid, well-ramified vegetation, which easily supports the weight of the flowers. Its branches bear finely dentate, ovate leaves of a fairly dark green colour, which are strongly veined and measure 5 to 15 cm (2 to 5.9 in) long and 5 to 7 cm (2 to 2.8 in) wide. They turn yellow to orange in autumn before disappearing in winter. Paniculate hydrangeas are less susceptible to late frosts, as they generally bloom on the year's shoots. 

Hydrangea paniculata distinguishes itself from its cousin, Hydrangea macrophylla, by its good tolerance of sun, sea spray and relative drought. Planted in any good garden soil without too much limestone, Hydrangea paniculata 'Hercules' shows rapid growth. It is a very hardy variety, which is planted alone, in a free hedge or in a massif, or even in clear undergrowth, mixed with other hydrangeas, cotinus or even perpetual roses to play with contrasts and shapes. You can also combine it with lilies, grasses and shrubby fuchsias. Its moderate development allows it to be incorporated into a small garden and to be grown without difficulty in a large  pot on the terrace where it will live for many years with some applications of fertiliser and regular watering.