Over 340 striking color photos introduce readers to the quintessential flower of the Cape and the Islands, the hydrangea. The lucky people who live in the region revel in these lush flowers flourishing in a maritime climate. Residents and visitors alike enjoy the beautiful displays of hydrangeas in home gardens, outside restaurants and inns, and especially in waterfront areas, where hydrangeas thrive in the sea air. Blue blooms predominate, their naturally cheerful colors echoing the blue of the sea and the sky. Regional gardeners also delight in creating tapestries of color in shades of pink, purple, and blue. This book captures the beauty of hydrangeas and their wide range of uses, both outdoors and indoors, including their frequent appearance in wedding bouquets. From the lacy white flowers of climbing hydrangeas in early spring to the rich burgundy blooms of late fall, hydrangeas bring accents of beauty throughout the growing season.

Hydrangeas are booming in popularity as home gardeners appreciate their long season of bloom, ease of maintenance, and dazzling variety of flower colors and forms. This book reveals the best species for landscaping uses and the best varieties for both fresh and dried flower arrangements. Unique in their ability to change flower color depending on soil composition, hydrangeas are the chameleons of the plant world. Color mysteries are cleared up along with recommendations for achieving the best blues, pinks, purples, and whites in the home garden. With more than 250 vivid color photos, the book offers clear and expert advice on planting, pruning, and providing basic care. Learn the best time to cut hydrangeas for fresh bouquets and when and how to harvest them for dried flowers. With single-topic chapters and answers to frequently asked questions, this is a handy and easily accessible guide for both beginning and experienced gardeners.