This recent introduction from the celebrated woodland garden of Princess Sturdza in Normandy, France is unusual for its graceful display of large, starry blooms. Hydrangea Great Star® bears almost round clusters of creamy white flowers, up to 4in wide, with wavy, elongated petals. Plants typically reach 6–7ft tall and nearly as wide in full sun or partial shade and flower from midsummer until the first hard frost. With an upright, arching habit, this low-maintenance shrub has an elegant air worthy of its royal heritage. 'Le Vasterival' PP 20,272

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 on Growing Guide.