Oakleaf hydrangea – Flowering plants

Oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia) is an attractive, ornamental deciduous flowering shrub that grows up to 8 m tall. It has large, dark green, oak-like leaves that are fuzzy when young. The leaves turn red or purple in the late fall. It produces a pyramidal cluster of white flowers that mature in the late spring and summer, turning purple with time. The tiny, dry seeds mature in the fall. It looks ideal when used as a specimen or accent for foundations or other locations near homes or patios.

Scientific classification

Family: Hydrangeaceae
Genus: Hydrangea
Species: H. quercifolia
Scientific Name: Hydrangea quercifolia Bartram
Common Name: Oakleaf hydrangea or Oak-leaved hydrangea

How to grow and care for Oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia)

Light

It thrives best from bright, indirect sunlight to partial shade. Provide at least 4 hours of bright, indirect sunlight every day.

Soil

It grows well in well-drained, peat-based soil with adequate amounts of organic matter, such as compost, leaf mold, or well-composted manure. While most hydrangeas grow better in soil that is lower in pH (acidic), they will tolerate higher pH soils (alkaline) quite well.

Water

Water regularly during the growing season. Keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy. Keep the soil barely moist in winter.

Temperature

It prefers to grow at a temperature below 60°F/16°C. Keep your hydrangea plant as cool as possible to prolong the flowering time.

Fertilizer

Fertilize every two weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) diluted by half. Or, use a slow-release fertilizer once in spring and again in summer.

Propagation

Oakleaf hydrangea can be easily propagated by stem tip cuttings. Take 4-inch stem tip cuttings in spring or early summer and root them in a moist potting mix.

Pests and Diseases

Oakleaf hydrangea has no serious pest or disease problems. Some susceptibility to bud blight, bacterial wilt, leaf spot, and mildew. Aphids are occasional visitors.