Creamy white flower heads become rosy pink by midsummer; then, touched by cool fall nights, turn gorgeous burgundy red. The cone-shaped clusters bloom reliably because this cold-hardy species sets buds on the current year's growth. It's an especially attractive backdrop in borders. 'Wim's Red' PPAF

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.