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Oakleaf hydrangea

Hydrangea quercifolia

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Oakleaf hydrangeas originated along the sandy streams of the southeastern United States, and they are more drought tolerant than many other hydrangeas. Their matte green leaves are coarsely textured and deeply lobed, and in fall they turn red and purple. White flower heads form in spring, and as summer draws to a close they turn shades of pink, green, and ecru. -Nellie Neal, Regional Picks: Southeast, Fine Gardening issue #127

CareMoist, well-drained soil.

PropagationSow seed in a cold frame in spring; take softwood cuttings in early summer, hardwood cuttings in winter. 

Problems Gray mold, slugs, powdery mildew, rust, ringspot virus, leaf spots.

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  • Genus : Hydrangea
  • Plant Height : 3 to 6 feet
  • Zones : 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
  • Plant Width : 6 to 10 feet
  • Bloom Time : Early Summer, Late Spring, Spring, Summer
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Fall Interest
  • Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
  • Maintenance : Low
  • Moisture : Medium Moisture
  • Growth Rate : Moderate
  • Flower Color : Pink, White
  • Uses : Shade
  • Characteristics : Showy Fall Foliage
  • Plant Type : Shrubs

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