Say hello to Hydrangeas!

Hydrangeas are shrubs that know how to put on a show.

They can do bright and breezy, they can do head-turning, and they can also do exquisitely elegant.

So if you are one of those people who has written them off as “not for me,” take a second look.

The paniculata types have upright habits and delightful Mr Whippy ice-cream shaped blooms, while arborescens Annabelle is a firm favourite of garden designers.

Climbing Hydrangea petiolaris has loose lacey flowers and is great for north-facing walls.

You will also find many new Hydrangeas in captivating colours and tones.

The best known Hydrangeas are the mopheads and lacecaps, named for the style of their outsized blooms.

They make spectacular cut flowers - and dried flowers too - although it is best to leave the majority  on the plant until spring, so they can protect forming buds from winter frosts.

Hydrangeas can have a vexatious habit of not flowering in their second year: this is usually because they are concentrating on developing their root systems, and is nothing to worry about.

Blue-flowering varieties are best grown in ericaceous composts but others will grow in any soil as long as it is not too dry or poor.

Finally, avoid planting Hydrangeas in spots where they will get the midday sun as they have a tendency to get hot and bothered in the heat.

• Find a varied choice of Hydrangeas this July at Katie’s Garden Plant Centre