Ruby Slippers Hydrangea quercifolia is a compact deciduous shrub with large oak-like leaves that turn red in fall and exfoliating bark. Its large panicles held above the foliage bloom white and quickly turn deep pink in summer attracting pollinators. Best bloom in part sun and rich, moist well-drained soils.
Hydrangea quercifolia is one of the species of hydrangea that acts as a pollenizer, attracting a large number of bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Songbirds eat the seeds and use the plant to nest.
Read about the introduction to our new Hydrangea Collection and limited time promotion here.
Type:
|
Shrub
|
Origins:
|
Southeast N. America; GA Native
|
Height:
|
3' - 4'
|
Spread:
|
4' - 5’
|
Spacing:
|
4’
|
USDA Hardiness Zone:
|
5 - 9
|
Culture:
|
Full Sun, Part Sun
|
Bloom Color:
|
White/Pink
|
Season of Interest:
|
Spring, Summer, Fall
|
MAINTENANCE NEEDS: Medium Maintenance. Mulch soil to maintain moisture and overwinter. If pruning is needed do so after flowering. Slight susceptibility to bud blight, wilt, leaf spot, and mildew. Aphids are occasional problems.
LANDSCAPE USES: Accents or Group Plantings, Borders, Woodland Gardens, Foundation Plantings, Hedges, Containers.
COMPANION PLANTS: Itea, Viburnum, Azalea
IMAGE: Photoset by F. D. Richards, (1) Hydrangea quercifolia 'Ruby Slippers' (2010) Photo by F.D.Richards, SE Michigan, 7/2020, (2) Hydrangea quercifolia 'Ruby Slippers' WW32 Oak Leaf Y0- (1)+(2)
*As plants have ranges in appearance they may not appear as the images shown