They should be cut back to almost ground level each spring to keep them low and bushy. Lower growing varieties were also introduced a few years ago, so you can enjoy them in small space gardens as well. Our hardy garden hibiscus are every bit as beautiful as their tropical counterparts. Red Heart', a pure white with a scarlet centre is my favourite. The blue toned 'Blue Bird' and the magenta-rose 'Woodbridge' are also very attractive in the landscape.
Most varieties have a deep coloured centre, creating quite a wonderful bi-colour effect.
If you plant one this time of year, it will quickly become one of your favourite plants. In many gardens we see hydrangeas in various colours of blues, pinks, purples and whites. They need moisture and shade from the intense heat of summer to perform their best, but some of the longest lasting and perhaps the most beautiful are the Lace Cap varieties. Lime will tend to keep them pink, and a few applications of aluminum sulphate will turn them blue. As the early varieties finish, take a good look at the huge pointed white blooms of the Peegee hydrangea for late summer and fall colour.