Hydrangea paniculata 'Bulk' EARLY SENSATION panicle hydrangea

Bulk is a tremendous panicle hydrangea variety from the Netherlands, found as a chance seedling by Rein Bulk in 1991. It surprised the breeder for its extremely early flowering producing its first panicles from late May already. It received a trade name Early Sensation which is a little confusing since this name is also used for a mop-head hydrangea from the Forever&Ever® series. It was patented under PP16,812 in 2006.

Bulk hydrangea bears large inflorescence composed of both sterile and fertile flowers usually from mid June. They emerge creamy white and mature to rich pink or even light purple. Being long-lasting these pink flowers remain on the plant until new panicles are produced in late summer which makes an attractive show of both white and pink flowers on the same plant. Currently (2014), Bulk is the longest blooming panicle hydrangea on the market.

Deciduous leaves are ovate to oval, pointed, deep green. Stems are strong, deep burgundy red. We recommend regular pruning every spring before the buds begin to swell. By cutting at least two thirds of previous year’s growth you will get a strong shrub with large flowers and a regular shape. This hydrangea is mostly upright with somewhat pendent side branches.

It will grow in almost any soil type, preferably humus-rich, moist soil that is not too heavy or shallow. Once established it does not need extra watering like big-leaf hydrangeas. Full sun is best but it will grow in shade, too. Feeding is much recommended to enhance flower size. It is hardy to at least -35°C (USDA zone 4).

Last update 23-08-2014