Endless Summer™ marked a breakthrough in Bigleaf Hydrangeas by flowering in spring on old wood and then in summer on new wood. Now we introduce its white-flowered sibling with the same dark green leaves and 9in flowers, but earlier rebloom. The flowers of Blushing Bride™ age to blush or pale sky blue depending on the pH of your soil. Tests are underway to evaluate its performance in Zone 4. PP 17,169

Hydrangea is a valuable genus of some 100 species of shrubs and vines grown for their large and very showy flower heads. Hydrangeas are at their best in summer and fall -- quiet time for most woody plants -- and are worth having for that reason alone. For information on Hydrangea care, click "GROWING TIPS" at left.