Hydrangea paniculata 'Barbara' (The Swan)

The Swan Hydrangea

Hydrangea paniculata ‘Barbara’ (The Swan) is a deciduous shrub noted for its elegant upright panicles of creamy white flowers that gradually mature to soft pink tones later in the season. This panicle hydrangea blooms on new wood from mid to late summer, producing strong, well-held flower heads above medium green foliage. Its sturdy stems and graceful flower form make it especially attractive in both formal and naturalistic plantings.

Type: Deciduous shrub
Mature Size: Width: 4–6 ft · Height: 5–7 ft
USDA Zones: 4a–8b

Form: Upright, rounded

Light: Full sun to partial shade

Soil: Adaptable; moist, well-drained soil preferred

Water: Medium; benefits from regular moisture during establishment

Wildlife: Attracts bees and other pollinating insects

Features & Landscape Uses:
An excellent choice for borders, mixed shrub beds, specimen planting, and cut flower use. The large upright white flower panicles provide strong summer interest and age attractively into soft pink tones.

Care:
Plant in sun to partial shade in well-drained soil. Because it blooms on new wood, prune in late winter or early spring to encourage vigorous flowering and maintain shape. Mulch to conserve moisture and support root health.

Plant type

Flowering Deciduous Shrub

Height

5-7'

Width

4-6'

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full Shade, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Early Fall, Late Summer, Summer

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Yellow, Yellow Green

Attracts

Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Soil

Moist well-drained, Rich

Landscape use

Hedge

Shape

Rounded, Upright

Bark

Exfoliating

Fruit

Yes

Salt tolerant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No