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Oakleaf Hydrangea Wikimedia Commons
Hydrangeaceae

Oakleaf Hydrangea

Hydrangea quercifolia

Gratitude and four-season beauty.

Family
Hydrangeaceae
Genus
Hydrangea
Native to
southeastern United States
Bloom season
Late Spring, Summer
Type
deciduous shrub
Height
4-8 ft
Sunlight
part shade to full sun
Soil
moist, well-drained, acidic
Water
moderate
Hardiness
5-9
Lifespan
perennial

Did you know

  • It is the state wildflower of Alabama, honored for its native range in the Southeast's woodlands.
  • The large oak-shaped leaves turn spectacular shades of bronze, crimson, and burgundy in autumn.
  • Unlike most hydrangeas, its flower color does not change with soil pH — the blooms always start white.
  • The exfoliating cinnamon-brown bark provides winter interest after the leaves drop.
  • Conical flower panicles can reach 12 inches long and gradually blush from white to deep rose as they age.

Color meanings

0

gratitude

1

abundance

2

understanding

Uses

  • foundation plantings
  • woodland gardens
  • dried flower arrangements
  • specimen shrubs