Hydrangea quercifolia

Common Names

Oakleaf Hydrangea, Oakleaf Hydrangeas

Summary

Oakleaf hydrangea is a native Southeastern United States deciduous shrub with an upright, multi-stemmed habit that typically grows 4–8 feet tall and wide. It features large oak-shaped leaves, cone-shaped panicles of creamy white flowers that age to pink, and cinnamon-colored exfoliating bark, with autumn foliage turning red, orange, and purple. Soil and light: moist, well-drained soil with slight acidity; partial shade preferred, though some sun tolerated; mulching recommended to retain moisture; prune after flowering since blooms on old wood; hardy in USDA zones 5–9; drought-tolerant once established; commonly used in woodland borders, foundation plantings, mass plantings, or as a specimen; flowers attract pollinators; may be susceptible to leaf spots and powdery mildew; deer may browse.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

48-96 inches

Spread

4-8 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 5-9

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally Partial Shade to Shade (afternoon shade preferred), Full Sun acceptable in cooler northern areas, Full Shade not ideal.

Soil Type

Moist, well-drained loamy soil with a slightly acidic pH of 5.0–6.5.

Soil Drainage

Moist, well-drained soil

Soil pH

4.5-6.5

Bloom Color

Creamy white, fading to pink as blooms age.

Bloom Time

Spring to Summer

Foliage Color

Green foliage that turns red, burgundy, purple, orange, and bronze in fall

Fall Foliage Color

Red, orange, burgundy, purple, bronze, mahogany, brown, lavender

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Slow to moderate growth; about 1–2 feet per year.

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Division, Layering

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees, butterflies, other pollinators, birds