Description

H. quercifolias are our most shade tolerant hydrangea, and what beautiful plants they are! A rounded, multi-stemmed shrub with large, upright, conical flower panicles that open white and age to shades of rosy-purple. Multiple bracts (sepals) give the panicle a double-flowered appearance. Mostly sterile flowers. Large, deeply-lobed, oak-like, deep green leaves turn a gorgeous crimson and purple in fall. Exfoliating bark of older stems provides winter interest. Best in moist, well-drained soil, but quite adaptable to any site except excessively wet ones. Bloom occurs on old wood. Prune if needed immediately after flowering (little pruning is usually needed). Per the Missouri Botanical Garden, H. quercifolia should be given a sheltered location and winter protection (e.g., mulch, burlap wrap) in USDA Zone 5, particularly when not fully established. Plants can lose significant numbers of flower buds or die to the ground in harsh winters (temperatures below -10 degrees F). ‘Ruby Slippers’ is a cross between oak leaf hydrangea cultivars ‘Snow Queen’ and ‘Pee Wee.’ It is noted for its compact size, large upright flower panicles and ruby red mature flowers (thus the cultivar name). Height: 3-4 ft. Spread: 3-5 ft. Family: Hydrangeaceae Bloom time: June to July Sun: full sun to part shade Water: medium Rabbit resistant According to Rutgers University, hydrangeas are “occasionally severely damaged by deer.” photo credit: Spring Meadows