Pinky Winky Hydrangea vs Cow Parsnip - TreeTime.ca

Pinky Winky Hydrangea vs Cow Parsnip

Heracleum maximum

Hydrangea paniculata Pinky Winky

CUSTOM GROW

CUSTOM GROW

Cow Parsnip
Pinky Winky Hydrangea

Cow Parsnip is a native perennial wildflower known for its tall growth, very large leaves, and broad clusters of white flowers. The abundant blossoms provide nectar and pollen for a wide variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. Birds and small mammals feed on its seeds, while the foliage serves as a larval host for certain butterfly species.

Cow Parsnip is often among the first native perennials to establish in disturbed or open sites. It typically grows in moist meadows, along streambanks, forest edges, and roadsides. Although usually a short-lived perennial or biennial, it readily self-seeds and maintains strong populations where conditions are favorable.

Cow Parsnip is the only native Heracleum in North America and should not be confused with the highly invasive Giant Hogweed (H. mantegazzianum).

Note: The sap of the Cow Parsnip can cause phytodermatitis when exposed to ultraviolet light (sunlight). This can cause rashes or even burns. Care should be taken if pruning or handling this plant.

Pinky Winky Hydrangea is an adaptable and tolerant hydrangea variety with unusual flowers. In late summer, clusters of white blooms emerge, transforming to shades of pink and white. This two-toned effect is outstanding and will make a stunning flowering addition to your yard.

Try Pinky Winky Hydrangea in mass plantings or as an accent plant on its own, just make sure you mulch the root system to help insulate in colder climates.

Cow Parsnip Quick Facts

Pinky Winky Hydrangea Quick Facts

Zone: 2a
Zone: 3a
Height: 1.8 m (6 ft)
Height: 1.5 m (5 ft)
Spread: 1.2 m (4 ft)
Spread: 2.4 m (8 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: partial shade
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: normal, wet
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: medium
Life span: short
Life span: medium
Growth form: upright
Spreading: seeds - low
Suckering: high
Maintenance: medium

Toxicity: sap causes skin irritation

Foliage: very large, palmate leaves
Fall colour: red purple
Flowers: large clusters of white flowers
Flowers: pink flowers with white tips
Bloom time: spring to early summer
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no


Native to: AB, BC, SK, MB, ON, QC, NS, NB, NL, YT, NT, PE
Other Names: american cow parsnip, common cow parsnip