LL gets much larger (Mine's approaching 6'x4' HxW) than Pee Wee (4'x3'). If you have any deer in your area, Oakleafs are also prone to having their dormant buds eaten off in winter as they stick out like sore thumbs on the branch ends. Oakleafs enjoy shade much more than paniculatas. Less finicking + more space = Little Lime.

I think oakleaf hydrangeas have a much longer season of interest than do other types - fall color, more interesting habit and exfoliating bark, handsome foliage even without flowers - so I'd lean in that direction :-)

I like the little limes, I have 8 of them. The color of the flowers is like nothing else. Bobo is another compact hydrangea with white flowers which is also nice

There are also other panicled hydrangea, smaller than LL, such as Bobo if size is an issue. H. paniculatas' summer bloom lasts far longer (in my garden 3-4 months) than oakleafs, which are spring bloomers. I think oakleafs have nicer foliage, especially in the fall. If you have a unusually cold winter they may not bloom but panicled hydrangeas form their buds on this season's wood so don't have any winter survival issues.

Oakleafs are a lot more finicky about soil conditions as well. You can fire a paniculata almost anywhere. Oakleafs would much rather grow in an old compost pile than in hunk of clay soil. They're also more susceptible to leaf diseases. I've got nothing against Oakleafs just find to be more of a challenge.

Thank you everyone- I do love the fall color of the oakleafs but may go in the paniculed-type direction. I had never heard of Bobo and this one just may fit all the requirements. Many thanks!

I like Bobo or Little Lime and have both. They bloom on new wood so you do not have to worry about winter die back.

Hyed - Can I ask where you purchased the Bobo hydrangea?

Last year I purchased Bobo from Garden Crossing on line but this year some of my local nurseries have Bobo so I bought another one. :-) You can't have too many hydrangea. :-)

Hi annlouoc, Mahoney's in Winchester had a ton awhile back. Many Mahoney's all over the area...3gal $45...maybe on sale, good luck

Hi Hyed- I spend many hours at Mahoney's- Many thanks!

Mahoneys winchester had beautiful Bobos late last week. More than I would have expected at this time in summer, but I have a feeling they haven't caught on yet.

Get it while you can.

Marie

Hyped & Marie- Mahoney's still has a decent amount of Bobos left- I bought two but am rethinking that perhaps I should get one more while I can. What is your suggested spacing- I know it says 4' but is that two far? Many thanks

Hi Annlouoc, you might try semi circle with flowers in front ..maybe 3' maybe less from base to base..a little hedge?....Oh I would add a third . .LOL