Panicled Hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata) is a structural shrub with white blooms late summer to early fall. They have decent fall color, and their attractive flowers remain interesting through winter. They prefer average soil in sun to part sun where they can grow to be over 8 feet tall and 8 feet wide. They are a good structural plant for slopes of larger bioretention plantings. Choices for underplanting include Rosy Sedge (Carex resea) and Coral Bells (Heuchera spp.).
Maintenance
Prune to shape, size, and remove dead wood in late winter. Branches tend to arch when in full bloom due to heavy flowerheads. Spent flowers can provide interest through winter if allowed to remain, however, heavy ice or snow can damage stems with flowerheads - so consider removal before large forecasted storms.