Panicle Hydrangea
Hydrangea paniculata ‘Tardiva’
(hy-DRAIN-juh) (pan-ick-yoo-LAY-tuh)

This is one of my most favorite plants. The only problem is it gets too big. It always blooms heavily and is pest and disease free. It gives a most welcome blast of color in the doldrums of summer. It's starting to bloom now and that is a little early. The blooming period is very long, and if you prune it right it can last deep into August. You have to be a little brutal and cut it back in the spring. It can be trained to a tree form if that is what you want, but I think it looks better as a shrub. Just remember to give it plenty of room.