Blooming today, the Tardiva hydrangea

I'm a big fan of Hydrangea paniculata 'Tardiva' - it's right up there with the oakleaf.  This one's pruned to be almost espaliered, wide but close up against the English laurel hedge.  So in this tight-fit border I can still walk along the middle, passing between the Tardiva and that 'Ogon' spirea.  Speaking of which, I'm in love with its chartreuse willow-like foliage anywhere, but especially with the lamb's ear.  There's some Salvia 'May Night' and reblooming Tradescantia in this vignette, too.

For once, I followed the Garden Blogger Bloom Day rules.  Though back on my blog I broke 'em again.

Comments

[gardenmentor]

Lovely Susan! My Oakleaf and Tardiva standard are also blooming like mad right now.

[Linda Lehmusvirta]

Lovely to enjoy the plants I can't have! Thank you!

[MA]

Thank you Elizabeth for pointing the way to Flora Plenos. I bought them, planted them and am CRAZY for them!

[Dee/reddirtramblings]

I love, 'Ogon' Spirea. I have three, and they just light up the border. I never thought about planting them with the lamb's ears though. Very nice contrast in color and texture.~~Dee

[commonweeder]

I've been thinking about Tardiva. I want to plant some BIG hydrangeas as part of my lawn limiting program. I like the lacy flowers and am hoping that it can grow low to the ground. Oakleaf is also on my list.