Doesn't sound like a great spot for a hydrangea.

That's what I'm concerned about.

Sounds like cactus might work in that spot. Opuntia humifusa, for example.

I can't imagine a more inhospitable and difficult situation for this type of hydrangea. I'd seriously consider some other heat and sun tolerant, droughty shrub.

Thanks, everyone. That's why I posted the question. I think I may go with the Pow Wow Wild Berry Echinacea instead. The spot does get shade starting at about 2:00 in the afternoon. Do you think an echinacea (cone flower) would still bloom profusely in these conditions?