Hydrangeas are classics — favored for their old-fashioned charm in the form of large flowerheads that bloom in variations of lavender, blue, pink and red (and gardeners can control the color by altering soil pH). Hydrangeas also are considered to be pest and disease resistant, though not completely trouble-free.

Hydrangeas come in a variety of species (six commonly grown in American gardens) and sizes. If space is tight in your yard, you can still enjoy lush hydrangea blooms with a small variety such as Let’s Dance 'Rave' reblooming hydrangea (above), which grows 2 to 3 feet tall and wide. Flower color shifts from a deep violet-purple in acid soils to pink in basic soils. Use this reblooming hydrangea in containers, as a specimen plant, to edge planting beds or as an informal hedge. Hardy in Zones 5-9. Continue to see more of our favorite hydrangea varieties.

'Starlight' requires regular watering and partial shade to full sun. This repeat bloomer produces vivid coloration and glossy foliage - great for mass plantings, containers or cutting.