Vanilla Strawberry (Hydrangea paniculata ‘Renhy’) – a real show stopper and award winner

Hydrangea ‘Strawberry Vanilla’ was introduced from France and has got to be one of the most eye-catching hydrangeas in recent years. Being named “top plant” by the American Nursery and Landscape Association it easy to see why! This easy to grow hydrangea will grow well in south facing positions which can sometimes be less forgiving for some shrubs and yet still seems to thrive in sunny positions all thought it best to assume it prefers dappled shade to grow to its full potential. It is a large vigorous, deciduous shrub and will grow to around 6-7ft ft tall by around 4-5ft wide so ensure you plan for a large plant and allow plenty of growing room for it to mature. It will start to produce them show-stopping flowers around the start of Summer and flowers appear from white pinkish buds and open into white flowers. The large white coned shaped flowers then start to turn pink before slowly turning a strawberry red colour giving it the name Vanilla Strawberry. But if that was not amazing enough the Vanilla Strawberry Hydrangea flowers all summer long meaning that all three flower colours (white /pink and strawberry pink) are displayed at once which just looks beautiful as the three colours contrast against each other for that award-winning show!.

Planting area

• Plant in well-drained fertile soil
• Grows well in full sun or dappled shade
• Very hardy so will grow in most areas without any problems

How to prune Vanilla Strawberry Hydrangea

Like all paniculata hydrangeas, they flower on new growth so can be pruned back by a third if needed. It is not essential but it is best to prune it early spring (February – March) after the worst winter frosts, but before they start to grow vigorously. This way the old growth provides some winter protection as well as some winter interest. More on pruning Hydrangeas

Planting guide

When you first get your plant home it is all ways best to soak the root of the plant in a bucket of water for around an hour to ensure it is fully saturated. It never a good idea to plant them with dry roots so be warned! Dig a hole large enough to plant the root ball and mix some good quality compost and fertilizer into the bottom of the hole to ensure it gets a good start. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with compost to the same level as previously planted ( planting too deep can kill the plant). Water well until established usually for the first 6 months. More on planting Hydrangeas

Using Vanilla Strawberry Hydrangea flower for cut flowers and bouquets

Like most Hydrangeas, they make superb flowers for cut flower and making bouquets and will make an excellent show. Flowers can last up to 12 weeks in vases and can be dried to make indoor arrangements to give that wow factor.

Pest and diseases

Hydrangea ‘Vanilla Strawberry’ does not really suffer from many diseases or pests but there are a few issues such as Mildew that may arise. Read more about pest and diseases here   This new variety Hydrangea Vanilla Strawberry Hydrangea can be purchased in America from the white flower farm