Ideal for small gardens, Hydrangea quercifolia 'Ruby Slippers' (Oak Leaf Hydrangea) is a compact, well-rounded deciduous shrub noted for its showy foliage and cone-shaped flowers. Blooming in early to mid summer, this Oak Leaf Hydrangea boasts larger than average conical flower heads, up to 9 in. long (22 cm). Opening white, the blossoms take on delightful pink tinges as the season progresses and turn ruby red as fall approaches. They are held upright above the lush foliage of deeply-lobed, oak-shaped, deep green leaves. The leaves warm up to mahogany-red as the nights grow cooler in the fall. Providing a long season of interest, Ruby Slippers is a lovely Oak Leaf Hydrangea to be used as a garden focal point or combined with other shrubs or perennials. Developed by the US National Arboretum from a cross of 'Snow Queen' and 'Pee Wee'.

• Grows up to 3-4 ft. tall (90-120 cm) and 5 ft. wide (150 cm).
• Performs best in full sun or part shade in fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soils.
• Great candidate for mass plantings, hedges, mixed shrub borders, as a backdrop or accent plant. Flowers are very attractive in dried arrangements
• Since this hydrangea flowers on previous year's growth, it should be pruned shortly after flowering is complete.
• Keep an eye out for aphids, capsid bug, glasshouse red spider mite and hydrangea scale.
• Propagate by softwood cuttings.
• Hydrangea quercifolia species is native to the southeastern United States.
• Foliage can aggravate skin allergies. Mild stomach upset possible if ingested.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.