Why Vanilla Strawberry Hydrangeas Won't Bloom in Shade

Vanilla Strawberry is a panicle hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata), and unlike mophead types, it demands full sun to bloom well. Your plants in 20-60% sun simply aren't getting enough light energy to form flowers. Hold off on pruning for a couple of years to maximize leaf surface, but if blooms still don't appear, transplant to a site with at least six hours of direct sun. Panicle hydrangeas thrive in full sun with adequate moisture.