Question
Last year we planted 7 endless summer hydrangea around our 12ft octagon shape gazebo.  I would like to plant some perennials between the hydrangea to fill in the area and also to add some color as the hydrangea dont bloom til mid summer.  Could you offer me some suggestions as to what perennial would compliment both visually (flower color is between pink and purple) and water requirment wise the hydrangea.  The gazebo gets morning sun/shade on one side and afternoon sun/shade on the other side.  I am open to any color flower except yellow.  Thanks.

Answer
Hi Elizabeth,
Thanx for your question.  I'm not much of a garden planner.  I can grow things and keep them growing but I don't have much of an artistic or landscaper touch.  What I can suggest to you is to use irises and use several kinds.  The German bearded begin blooming in May and then the Japanese iris will bloom later.  Use peonies white, pink or maroon which will bloom in May.  Purple coneflower will bloom most of the summer.  Any of the Knock-out roses will start blooming in May and continue through the summer.  Daylilies will also start blooming and there are a number of reds, pinks and whites you can choose from.  Something else that is nice that might work in your area is Delphinium.  I'd go with the shorter ones unless you're okay with having to stake the larger ones like Pacific Giants if you're in a windy area.  Lupins are also a great flower for purples, pinks, whites and blues.  I hope this helps.
Tom