10 Hydrangea Show-Stoppers

With their large flower heads, variable habits, and beautiful (changeable) color, here are ten of our favorite Hydrangeas.

Everlasting Amethyst

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Everlasting Amethyst

Hydrangeas come in over a hundred varieties and differ in color, size, and shape of bloom as well as in growth and seasonal habits. Here are ten of our top editor picks, starting with this newEverlasting Amethystfrom White Flower Farm. Check with your local garden center for more information and the best variety for you and your climate.

White Flower Farm

Panicle Hydrangea

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Panicle Hydrangea

Native to Asia and perfect for the sunny garden, thePanicle Hydrangeaoffers a later bloom than most (late summer and early fall). Although there are many variations under thepaniculatatitle, it is typically a very shapely and prune-friendly shrub.

Fine Gardening

Mophead Hydrangea

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Mophead Hydrangea

Perhaps the most notorious and noticeable of outdoor hydrangea, theMopheadboasts broad leaves, heavy blossoms, and vibrant colors. Depending on the pH of the soil, the buds can range from deep blue to pink and anywhere in between.

Great Plant Picks

PeeGee绣球花

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PeeGee绣球花

A variation of the Panicle Hydrangea, thePeeGee是一个缩短的名称“Panicle Grandiflora,” the only type of hydrangea shrub that can be pruned into tree form. Ideal for sunny areas, the conical blooms add appeal to any outdoor space and from year to year, they can be shaped and trimmed.

Hydrangeas Hydrangeas

Oakleaf Hydrangea

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Oakleaf Hydrangea

With its pointed petals and leaves, theOakleaf Hydrangeais a unique choice sure to inject interest into your garden. Typically found in the Southeast United States, it tolerates shady environments well and adds height and bloom to any landscape scheme. During fall foliage, the leaves, like their namesake, take on colorful hues.

Dave's Garden

Smooth Hydrangea

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Smooth Hydrangea

Perfect for partial- or full-shade areas of the yard, these cloud-like clusters of white or pink buds bloom readily in early summer and grow in lushness and volume each year they return. Most commonly seen in the Northeast United States,Smooth Hydrangeascan grow in a number of climates and regions and have a big presence in any yard.

Garden Crossings

Lacecap Hydrangea

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Lacecap Hydrangea

Intriguing and unusual, offering a varied and deep appearance, theLacecap Hydrangeacan also be found in a range of colors. The Lacecap name comes from the crown of larger blossoms that surround a top of tiny buds.

Great Plant Picks

Climbing Hydrangea

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Climbing Hydrangea

A charming vine-like look for any brick exterior or trellis, the beauty of the hydrangea can be accomplished even with limited garden space. Perfect for relatively shady areas and able to grow on a trellis, arbor, or wall, theClimbing Hydrangeaoffers those beloved floral clusters with all the added appeal of ivy!

Florist Hydrangea

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Florist Hydrangea

Although they are not hearty enough for outdoor planting,Florist Hydrangeasboast some of the most vivid colors. Ranging from deep purple to blush pink, these buds are babied for a reason. Their domesticated roots and indoor growing environment allow for optimal pH control, lending them incredible color and quality.

Hart's Greenhouse Florist

Annabelle Hydrangea

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Annabelle Hydrangea

TheAnnabelle Hydrangeaso typical of the landscape of the Eastern United States is typically white with smaller petals and more blossoms per stem. The Annabelle has old-world country charm and the staying power to grace your garden for years to come.

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