I’m linking up with Erika, Narci and Andrea and sharing my Friday Favorites of flowers in bloom around my gardens.

In the Midwest, this is the time of year when some of my spectacular spring plants are really starting to wear away in the real heat and humidity of a Kansas City summer. What’s interesting, though, is that there are plants that kind of hang out all spring, and then REALLY gear up in this deathly heat. Here are some favorites around the garden right now:

After peony season in the early spring, which is my absolute favorite flower of all time, hydrangea season is a close second. I love these big beautiful bunched flowers, and the heat of the summer is when they start blooming. They also make for GORGEOUS cut flowers.

I talked about lantana in my Garden Path post, and it never disappoints. It has at least doubled, maybe even tripled in size since when I first planted it in early June. I have a little hummingbird buzzing around this summer, and I have no doubt that the lantana has something to do with it.

The way that this particular variety changes colors from dark pink to yellow to light pink only makes it even more fun to watch grow.

Summer heat that feels like tropical weather = perfect conditions for hibiscus. This variety also changes color throughout the day when it blooms. It goes from this beautiful deep pink to a light pink in the evening.

The way all of these colors in the front pot are growing together is particularly pretty right now. There are days when it looks a little out of control, but there’s something pretty about the unkempt nature of this pot.

It’s not a bloom, but this candle is a current favorite. Pickwick candles are a Kansas City candle company, and this scent, Sweet Tea, smells like summer to me. Love it so much!

Have a wonderful weekend! Harrison and I are off to spend some time with my Mom while she’s in town!