Whether “Playin’ in the Band” or solo in the garden, this red hydrangea will shine just as brightly as any “Scarlet Begonia.” This new macrophylla variety produces bright red flowers, unusual for the mac group. A hardy plant, Grateful Red prefers the east side of a house or building, allowing it a respite from the heat, and even moisture. This hydrangea flowers consistently from spring to fall, showing off large, mop-head flowers that mature from red to purple as the weather cools. Acidic soil can shift the color toward purples, as well. The blooms age to a lavender color in autumn, and the fall foliage has an incredible burgundy coloration. HYDRANGEA MACROPHYLLA ‘MCKRED’