Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia)

common name: 
Oakleaf Hydrangea
 | 
scientific name: 
Hydrangea
 
quercifolia
Cluster of white hydrangea flowers amid vibrant green and yellow leaves.

Oakleaf Hydrangea cultivar 'Little Honey' (Hydrangea quercifolia 'Little Honey') photographed in the Keim Hall Courtyard on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's East Campus in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Image Creadit: 
Trey Lamkins, Graduate Research Assistant

Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia) is a distinctive deciduous shrub native to the southeastern United States and prized for its four-season ornamental appeal. Large cone-shaped clusters of white flowers emerge in early summer and gradually age to pink and tan, often persisting into winter. The species is named for its large, deeply lobed leaves that resemble those of oak trees. In autumn, the foliage develops outstanding shades of burgundy, red, bronze, and purple before dropping. Exfoliating cinnamon-brown bark provides additional winter interest.

Charecteristics
Plant type: 
Deciduous shrub
Hardiness Zones: 
5a, 5b, 6a, 7, 8, 9
Light Needs: 
Part Shade
Water Needs: 
Moist
Space Requirements: 
6 -12 feet
Height Requirements: 
6– 0 feet
Spread Requirements: 
5–8 feet
Maintenance Requirements: 
Low
Bloom Color: 
White
Bloom Time: 
Summer
Leaf Color: 
Green
Wildlife Attraction: 
Birds
Butterflies
Companion Plant Tolerance: 
Dry Soil
Varieties
'Little Honey'

A compact selection featuring bright golden-yellow foliage in spring that matures to chartreuse and eventually green as the season progresses. White flower panicles contrast beautifully with the colorful foliage, while fall brings shades of red, orange, and burgundy.

'Alice'

One of the largest and most vigorous oakleaf hydrangea cultivars, growing 10 to 12 feet tall and wide. 'Alice' produces exceptionally large white flower panicles that age to rosy pink and develops outstanding burgundy-red fall color.