Hydrangeas are the Southern Belles of my garden, with giant blooms that last and last. The diversity of hydrangea cultivars that breeders have produced over the past decade have allowed me to grow hydrangeas in places I never thought possible. The Southern Living® Hydrangea Collection has plants for every space in the garden, from full sun to deep shade. This article helps you get to know the different types of hydrangeas and the best way to use each in the garden.

In sunnier locations, I like to pair the bold blooms and bright foliage of panicle hydrangeas like Moon Dance® and White Wedding® with the evergreen foliage of Coppertop™ Viburnum. With deep maroon to copper-colored new growth, this handsome shrub provides a stately backdrop. And it is one of Southern Living’s many pet-friendly shrubs.

Southern Living® Gardenias are another classic companion to hydrangeas. In this video, Linda Vater shows us how to create garden magic with Jubilation™ Gardenia. If you are looking for inspiration, try one of these timeless gardenia combinations in your garden for elegant beauty and enchanting fragrance.

Let the Blooms Commence!