Oakleaf Hydrangea – Ruby Slipper

Hydrangea quercifolia, commonly called oakleaf hydrangea, is an upright, broad-rounded, suckering, multi-stemmed, deciduous shrub that typically grows 4-6′ (less frequently to 8′) tall.’Ruby Slippers (cross between oak leaf hydrangea cultivars ‘Snow Queen’ and ‘Pee Wee’) is a compact form that matures to only 3-4′ tall and to 3-5′ wide, and is noted for its compact size, large upright flower panicles, ruby red mature flowers (hence the cultivar name), mahogany red fall foliage color and exfoliating bark. Upright, elongated, conical flower panicles (to 9″ long) of showy, mostly sterile, flowers begin bloom in late spring. Flowers emerge white, but quickly turn pink before finally maturing to ruby red. Distinctive, deeply-lobed, somewhat coarse, deep green, oak-like leaves (to 5 long) turn attractive shades of mahagony-red in autumn. Mature stems exfoliate to reveal a rich brown inner bark which is attractive in winter.

Common Name: Oakleaf Hydrangea
Type: Deciduous shrub
Family: Hydrangeaceae
Zone: 5 to 9
Height: 3.00 to 4.00 feet
Spread: 3.00 to 5.00 feet
Bloom Time: June to July
Bloom Description: White maturing to ruby red
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Water: Medium
Maintenance: Low
Suggested Use: Hedge
Flower: Showy, Good Cut, Good Dried
Leaf: Good Fall
Other: Winter Interest