Hey there, I am also in zone 5 and have had lots of success with some hydrangea in full sun. You will want to stay away from the mophead's as they need a lot of shade. Just about all of the panicle hydrangea do well in full sun in our zone. I have 3 'Limelight' hydrangea and 2 'Vanilla Strawberry' in full sun. They are thriving and are amazing Hydrangea.

What you want are the "paniculata" hydrangeas--they are sun lovers. The 2 mentioned above--Limelight and Vanilla Strawberry--are both popular paniculatas. Another well-known one is Pinky Winky--but it is somewhat like Vanilla Strawberry, so check to see if there is something you prefer more about one or the other.

When I moved on my property thirty some years ago, there was a old paniculata hydrangea (pure white) already growing here in the full sun and it had been for years. Didn't know its name, but if you want solid white, just make sure the word "paniculata" appears also, and you will be fine.

Annabelle hydrangea is an "arborens" hydrangea. Although it blooms better if it gets a little sun, "a little sun" is the operative term. It is still basically a shade plant--but a great one if that is what you are looking for.

Kate

Thank you both for the responses! I had been researching and came upon what you suggested, that the paniculata hydrangeas are the way to go. I have a Limelight (not in full sun-- part shade in the afternoon) and I do like it, but it is blooming so late!

I saw Vanilla Strawberry at our local arboretum and loved it. Will have to look into that one more. For a longer bloom time I think I will have to stick with Quick Fire, yes?

I have another place for an Annabelle in some shade-- will put her there!

You won't go wrong w/ QF ~ in my zone in full sun ~ the very first to produce buds when all the rest are just working on their tips & first to turn her feiry apricot color. If you are like me & prefer the looser-lacey panicle of blooms, check out Tickled Pink as well. I planted 1 last season no pix to show yet but will very soon!

If you are not scared of having to coddle Diva Hydrangeas (Lacecaps) there are a few that are quite appealing! However be prepared to give them good Winter cover ups!

Best of luck & join in the funnnnn!

Annabelle will bloom the first half of the summer, the paniculata the second half of the summer--with some overlap in the middle of the summer.

You are going to love your hydrangeas.

Kate

This is such helpful info!

Now I am trying to decide what size QF I want-- figure I will start with these since I want the privacy they'd bring.

Was told a 2 gallon will reach maturity in 2-3 years. . .but that is a lot of waiting for privacy. But, of course I'd pay more for bigger and I need 3. Not sure if I should spend the $. Hmm!