My aunt grew hydrangea macrophyllas in Ocala but did not try hydrangea paniculatas. However, other posters are growing Little Lime in Gainsville so yours stands a chance. The University of Florida however, recommends morning sun.

https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/hydrangea.html

Thanks luis. ive been told the paniculatas do better here. i had lovely little limes in GA, my favorite, but just dont see any here in Gainesville. The local nursary suggested Moon Dance and told me it did better then LL. Not sure how true or if it was just to make a sale however it is a very pretty hydrangea and quite similar to LL. I was hoping someone local might have some experience with it. i didnt find much on it. Ill give it a go. Appreciate your reply.

I am further North and West than you are, in the panhandle (zone 8b) but macrophyllas & paniculatas seem to do well here. They are everywhere and are beautiful!