Oakleaf hydrangea
Oakleaf hydrangeas offer year-round interest to the garden. In spring, the young leaves unfurl bright green and fuzzy. Long, cone-shaped, mostly white flower buds appear, turning purple as they mature in the late spring and summer, before they eventually morph to pinkish-brown tones. In fall the leaves gradually turn purple, burgundy, or red and are lovely in the landscape and in floral arrangements. Once the leaves fall in early winter, interesting reddish-brown exfoliating bark is revealed, reminiscent of manzanita.
Beautiful, low-water, disease resistant
Many sizes available
There are numerous cultivars available. Most range from 6 to 7 feet tall with a similar girth, although some specimens may reach 15 feet tall. Carefully review the size noted on the nursery nametag. There are also miniature varieties with engaging names like Pee-Wee and Munchkin to consider.
Prune in mid-summer
Blooms form on old wood, so mid-summer pruning is recommended. Pruning later could limit blooms the following spring. Just let it grow and enjoy the abundant blooms next spring.
Oakleaf hydrangeas can be an excellent addition to your garden, planted individually as a specimen plant or as a landscape border. The changing, year-round appeal may be just what you’re looking for!