Alphabetical Plant Listing

Hydrangea quercifolia (Oak Leaf Hydrangea)

Oak Leaf Hydrangea, Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea Quercifolia)


Native to the United States, Hydrangea quercifolia (Oak Leaf Hydrangea) is a very handsome and versatile deciduous shrub that provides a spectacular show all year round. Named after the shape of its beautiful leaves, it produces a profusion of magnificent grapes of creamy-white flowers, up to 12 in. (30 cm), in late spring and early summer. Lasting about 3-4 weeks, the elongated flower clusters gradually turn pink as fall approaches. In fall, the foliage of deeply lobed, oak-like leaves steals the show by turning bronze, crimson, or burgundy, making this flowering shrub one of the most attractive shrubs for the fall garden. As the leaves fall, they expose the rich brown exfoliating bark.

  • Oakleaf Hydrangeas typically grow up to 6-8 ft. tall and wide (180-240 cm).
  • Cold-hardy, Oakleaf Hydrangeas can endure harsh winters and severe cold. They are excellent substitutes for Mophead Hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla) in colder climates.
  • Full sun or part shade lovers, Oakleaf Hydrangeas prefer fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Best in partial shade in hot summer areas but they tolerate full sun in cooler, moist climates. 
  • Oakleaf Hydrangeas are great candidates for mass plantings, hedges, and mixed shrub borders, as a backdrop or accent plant. Flowers are very attractive in dried arrangements.
  • Since Oakleaf Hydrangeas flower on previous year's growth, they should be pruned shortly after flowering is complete.
  • Can cause mild stomach upset if ingested and contact with foliage may aggravate skin allergies.

Guide Information

Hardiness 5 - 9
Heat Zones 5 - 9
Climate Zones 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 2B, 3A, 3B
Plant Type Shrubs
Plant Family Hydrangea
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring
Summer
Fall
Winter
Height 6' - 8' (180cm - 240cm)
Spread 6' - 8' (180cm - 240cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained
Characteristics Dried Arrangements, Cut Flowers, Showy
Landscaping Ideas Beds and Borders, Hedges and Screens, Patio and Containers
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden

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While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.

Guide Information

Hardiness 5 - 9
Heat Zones 5 - 9
Climate Zones 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 2B, 3A, 3B
Plant Type Shrubs
Plant Family Hydrangea
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring
Summer
Fall
Winter
Height 6' - 8' (180cm - 240cm)
Spread 6' - 8' (180cm - 240cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained
Characteristics Dried Arrangements, Cut Flowers, Showy
Landscaping Ideas Beds and Borders, Hedges and Screens, Patio and Containers
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden
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