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Public Plant Profile

Puffer Fish® Hydrangea

Hydrangea paniculata 'NCHP1' (Puffer Fish®)

Category: Deciduous Shrub • Hydrangea

Discover the Puffer Fish® Hydrangea, a compact beauty with large blooms perfect for small gardens.

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Mature Height: 3-4 feet

Mature Width: 3-4 feet

Bloom Color: White, Cream

Bloom Time: Summer

Light: Part Sun/Part Shade

Zone: Zones 3-8

Maintenance: Low

Growth Rate: Moderate

Season of Interest: Summer

Foliage: Deciduous

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Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

Puffer Fish® Hydrangea is a compact, unique variety known for its round, fluffy flower clusters that resemble puffer fish. It features sturdy stems and lush green foliage, making it an excellent choice for gardens and landscapes.

Ideal Conditions

Prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Tolerates a range of moisture levels.

Soil Preferences

Well-drained soil is ideal, with moderate moisture. Adaptable to various pH levels.

Sun Needs

Part Sun/Part Shade

Watering Needs

Water regularly, especially during dry spells, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but not soggy.

Pruning Notes

Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage new growth.

Fertilizing Notes

Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and flowering.

Common Issues

May face issues with powdery mildew or aphids; ensure good air circulation and monitor for pests.

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

specimenfoundation planting

Special Features

Unique compact formlarge blooms

Wildlife Value

Attracts pollinators and provides habitat.

Resistance / Tolerance

Drought tolerant.

Notes from Our Designer

Great for small spaces and urban gardens. Provides seasonal interest with its striking flowers.

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Design Ideas Using This Plant

Use this page to get a feel for where Puffer Fish® Hydrangea may fit in the landscape, then explore similar plants below for more ideas on form, texture, and overall planting style.

What Clients Say

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“Josh of Bold Outdoors was a very professional, hard working landscape service provider. He worked with me very well blending his ideas with that I had already done in my landscape. He worked with me instead of telling…”

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Helpful Next Steps

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Puffer Fish® Hydrangea a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

Next Step

Ready to plan your landscape?

Browse more plants or reach out and we will help you choose the right combination for your space.

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