Hydrangea paniculata ‚LC NO11‘ LIVING SUGAR RUSH panicle hydrangea

LIVING SUGAR RUSH is a compact panicle hydrangea variety with a dense, symmetrical habit, growing to just under a meter in both height and width. From mid-summer through autumn, it produces medium-sized, conical flower heads composed of pure white sterile florets that retain their snowy colour throughout the season, with only a faint blush of pink appearing at its very end. This slight shift does nothing to diminish its elegant whiteness, which resembles sugar icing atop a cake. No wonder it was named Sugar Rush — once it begins to bloom, it feels like a sweet burst of energy, a fresh explosion of blossoms that lights up even the dullest corner of the garden. With its firm stems and compact growth, it maintains its shape even after rainfall and looks refined without needing any intervention.

The deciduous leaves are oval to ovate, healthy, and medium green, while the stems display a deep maroon hue that accentuates the shrub’s overall color impression. For the most impressive display of sturdy branches and generous flowers, prune the shrub hard each spring before budbreak (around March), cutting the previous year’s growth down to approximately 10 cm. It blooms on new wood. LIVING SUGAR RUSH is compact enough to mix beautifully among mid-to-tall perennials with similar preferences — think sunshine and moisture. It pairs elegantly with the cut foliage of bugbanes (Actaea), the vivid vertical accents of blue, rose or red delphiniums, or the airy touch of purple loosestrife (Lythrum). What will you pair it with?

Panicle hydrangeas grow best in full sun, though they can tolerate light partial shade. They are not particularly fussy about soil type but thrive in rich, well-drained conditions. Once established, they cope well with brief summer droughts, though consistent moisture helps keep them healthier. They respond well to fertilization, producing larger blooms and bushier plants. They adapt to any exposure and soil pH. Hardy down to –34 °C (USDA zone 4) and suitable for outdoor planters where they’ll simply need more frequent watering.

Last update 25-06-2025