Um... I meant plants, not trees. Wasn't paying attention!

Red buckeye? It's a small tree that does great in shade and has 10" flower spikes.

That's a good idea. Thanks!

Firespike is something else that comes to mind.

Mine returned even after last winter's hard freezes. Its pretty foliage is nice even when not blooming.

Here is a link that might be useful: About Firespike plants on Google...

I have Fireman's cap/Coral bean tree in the shade where it blooms in the spring and has nice foliage the rest of the year.

Here is a link that might be useful: Coral bean tree ...

I love those suggestions! I think I am going to look into Coral bean immediately. I'm trying to stay away from things that need extra water, but I am not always successful in that. Hence, the new hydrangeas in my yard. :->

Thanks, everyone! I really appreciate it.