Despite being labled as such pretty nearly everywhere, they are not the same plant. But both are great, deep pink (NOT red - there is no true "red" hydrangea) mopheads; 'Glowing Embers' tends to have a more compact habit. Acidic soils will tend to make the blooms more of a reddish, bluish-purple. Either should receive some afternoon shade and need a rich, organic soil that is moisture retentive. Depending on your on your zone, winter protection may be in order.

Don't expect too much from a gallon sized plant. Will take a couple of season for these to really come into their own.

Ditto Gardengal's comments.

Since you live on Long Island, (prime hydrangea real estate) do you mind if I ask why you are ordering from a nursery in the south? Both, Alphengluhen and Glowing Embers are very common cultivars in the trade and you should be able to find much larger, nicer plants at your local nursery or big box garden shop for much less money. There is a well known hydrangea nursery on Long Island called Hydrangea Select that would almost assuredly sell both cultivars. (they actually acknowledge the difference between the two) They sell to the public both locally and on-line. It is always better (if possible) to buy plants that are already aclimated to your zone. The money saved on shipping can be spent on larger, nicer plants. I believe most of Long Island is a maritime zone 7???..If so, hydrangeas thrive there with usually no need for winter protection.
The link below contains their physical location. Maybe they are close enough to make it worth the trip. Good luck....yg

Here is a link that might be useful: Hydrangea Select

It always will be on a smaller side (by hydrangea standards). Something like in a 3x3 or 3x4 range

I wholeheartedly agree with YG, ordering such common cultivar such as GE from mail-order is a complete waste of money.

THANK YOU for these very helpful responses. Please keep them coming...

Can't let the opportunity pass without once again complimenting EGO on his (mouth watering) pictures. Those babies would make anyone a hydrangea lover! It's great that lemoyne can really see what's in store and why it's so worth the little extra homework to have these beauties growing in one's yard. Thanks again George.....yg

lemoyne,

I also live on Long Island and have been growing 'Glowing Embers' for the last several years. Mine did not bloom last year but I did not protect it for the winter. So far, I'm not overly impressed with this variety.

In a few weeks, these should be available at Home Depot for around $10 for a 2-3 gallon pot. Definitely no need to order these online.

Rokal