Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Shrub

Oakleaf Hydrangea
Hydrangea quercifolia

Oakleaf Hydrangea flower
Oakleaf Hydrangea flower
 
Features
Large pyramidal clusters of white flowers in summer; flower color changes to pinkish white in late summer and light brown in autumn; summer foliage has an attractive, oak-like appearance; autumn color is russet-red. 
 
Culture
Full sun to shade; moist, well-drained soil is preferred; acid soil is preferred, but alkaline soil is tolerated. 
 
Cultivars
  • 'Alice' - Large, showy flowers change from white to pink as they age, up to 12 feet tall.
  • 'Pee Wee' - 2-3 feet tall.
  • 'Snow Queen' - Larger and fuller flower clusters, autumn color is red-bronze.
 
 
Mature Height
3-6 Feet
 
Size
Small
 
 
Mature Width
3-6 Feet
 
Mature Form
Upright to irregular; potential to sucker and form colonies 
 
Native To:
United States  
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
5 - 9 
 
Soil Conditions
Moist, Well-Drained
 
 
Tolerance
Alkaline Soil
Salt
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Shade
Full Sun
Partial Sun/Shade
 
 
Uses
Border
Naturalizing
Specimen
 
 
Foliage Color
Green
 
 
Fall Foliage Color
Brown
Red
 
 
Pests and Problems
 
Additional Notes

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic