Common Name: Limelight Prime® Panicle Hydrangea
Latin Name: Hydrangea paniculata
Plant Patent: PP32,511
Brand: Proven Winners® ColorChoice® Shrubs
Description
The next generation of the beloved ‘Limelight’ is here: Limelight Prime® features brighter color, earlier blooming, and sturdier stems in a more compact form. This improved panicle hydrangea begins blooming earlier in summer, developing into vivid green blooms that age beautifully to rich pink and red hues into fall. Its strong stems support large mophead blooms upright throughout the season, even after heavy rain.
A fantastic performer in colder climates and a standout in containers, borders, or as a specimen hedge, Limelight Prime® combines bold visual appeal with garden-friendly proportions and excellent cut-flower value.
Mature Height: 4–6 ft
Mature Spread: 4–5 ft
Habit: Upright
Foliage Color: Green
Flower Color: Lime green maturing to vivid pink and red
Bloom Season: Early summer to late fall
Bloom Habit: Long blooming; flowers on new wood
Sun Exposure: Full sun to part sun (4–6+ hours of sun)
Water Needs: Average; requires good drainage
Soil pH: Adaptable; performs well in acidic, neutral, or alkaline soils
Soil Type: Well-drained, fertile soil preferred
Hardiness Zones: USDA 3–9
Maintenance Level: Easy
Pruning: Prune back by one-third in late winter or early spring; do not prune in fall unless completely dormant
Fertilizer: Feed in early spring with a granular rose fertilizer; monthly feeding optional through July for quicker growth
Landscape Uses
- Flowering hedge
- Garden centerpiece or specimen plant
- Mixed perennial borders
- Containers and foundation plantings
- Excellent cut and dried flower
Special Features
- Earlier and longer blooming than the original Limelight
- Vivid fall color transitions
- Improved stem strength = no flopping
- Smaller, manageable size for modern landscapes
- Cold hardy to USDA Zone 3
- Long season of interest (summer through late fall)
- Excellent fresh or dried cut flower
