Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are extremely vigorous, long-lived shrubs that offer varied and extravagant blooms throughout summer and into fall, when many shrubs have completed their show. Modern selections come in enticing shades of white, cream, pink, blue, and red, and in lacecap and oakleaf shapes as well as the familiar mophead. The big, rounded flower clusters make handsome dried arrangements. Hydrangea bushes can show off in gardens or containers and, because they tolerate both wind and salt, make an ideal choice for the seaside summer cottage.