The Oakleaf Hydrangea

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - They're blooming right now with spikes of white flowers shooting up just in time to celebrate the Fourth of July. That's our oakleaf hydrangea - appropriately patriotic, since this is a very American plant and native to our area. An oakleaf hydrangea can take a lot more sun than the traditional mophead kind, and doesn't mind a dry spot once it's established; which saves on wilting and watering during a heat wave.

And while all hydrangeas are beautiful in summer, this Hydrangea quercifolia has several seasons of interest.

In the fall, the oak-shaped leaves which give the plant its name turn pretty colors just like oak leaves do - from reds and purples to golden yellows. So, if you plant an oakleaf hydrangea, you'll not only enjoy its rockets of white glare this time of year, you'll also have another festive show to look forward to when autumn comes around.

Reported By Phran Novelli, KYW Newsradio