For a long-lasting color display during the summer months, consider Hydrangeas. Although the plants themselves are rather inconspicuous, the highly decorative bloom clusters that appear in June and July are the real attention grabbers. In our part of the world, Hydrangeas are fast-growing, hardy plants that can add color and interest to any landscape.

In the southeast, Hydrangeas perform best in filtered shade. It is difficult for them to tolerate our intense afternoon sun and summer heat. Plant Hydrangeas in an area with moist, fertile soil that drains well. Frequent and consistent watering is a necessity. If the plant wilts, it is either receiving too much sun or too little water. Apply mulch to the planting site to protect the plant roots, retain moisture in the soil and discourage weeds. Except for Hydrangea arborescens, most Hydrangeas bloom on old wood. For this reason, prune after flowering is complete.

There are several different kinds of Hydrangeas, but the most common species is Bigleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla). There are over 500 cultivars of Bigleaf Hydrangea. The plant usually has a rounded, symmetrical growth habit. The leaves are large and serrated with a thick, fleshy texture. At maturity, the plants will range from three to ten feet tall with a spread that is equal to or wider than the height. Bloom colors vary, depending on the cultivar you select. The bloom color of some varieties is affected by the pH of the soil. Blue coloration occurs in acidic soil. Pink coloration occurs in alkaline soil.

Oakleaf Hydrangeas (Hydrangea quercifolia) are also very popular. They are native to the Piedmont region of the southeast. They have large, oak-like leaves that turn a deep burgundy to bronze in the fall. The long-lasting blooms generally open in June. As the plant ages, the bark peels in papery strips. Oakleaf Hydrangeas can grow four to twelve feet high at maturity, depending on the variety.

To help you decide which Hydrangea is right for your landscape, let's take a look at a few popular varieties.

BUTTONS 'N BOWS® is a compact Hydrangea with sensational bright pink flowers edged in white. The large flower clusters emerge pale green, then turn to a vibrant pink. Great for containers or landscape planting. This shrub will reach 3 to 4 feet at maturity.

DOOLEY HYDRANGEA was discovered in Coach and Mrs. Vince Dooley's garden in Athens, GA. The brilliant blue flower clusters nearly smother the plant in June. It may also bloom sporadically in July – August. Grows vigorously to a height and width of 3 to 5 feet at maturity.

NIKKO BLUE is a vigorous grower that can reach 6 feet tall at maturity. It produces abundant, globe-shaped, medium blue flower clusters. Excellent accent plant for borders or woodland gardens.

ENDLESS SUMMER® blooms on both old wood and new wood. It produces large, colorful mop head flower clusters virtually all season long. Blooms are clear pink in alkaline soil and blue in acidic soil. Endless Summer will reach 3 to 5 feet in height at maturity. It is surprisingly hardy and can withstand cold temperatures as far north as Zone 4. Because it is a relatively new variety, supplies are limited.

ALICE OAKLEAF HYDRANGEA has deeply lobed, oak-like leaves and a profusion of large milk-white flower clusters. As an added bonus, the fall foliage is a brilliant crimson. This variety can become very large. It may reach 8 to 10 feet tall and wide at maturity.