Hydrangea quercifolia ''Snowflake''

Botanical Name: Hydrangea quercifolia "Snowflake"

Common Name: "Snowflake" Oakleaf Hydrangea

Plant Type: Shrub
Light Requirements: Part Sun, Part Shade
Special Attributes: Deciduous
Zone: 5-9
Growth Rate: Moderate
Height X Spread: 8’ H x 6’ W
Bloom Time: Early summer through fall
Bloom Description: Creamy white 15 inch dense panicles of double flowers occurring on old wood
Foliage Description: Dark green oak-like leaves with a coarse texture. Leaves become shades of purple in fall.
Soil: Moist, Well Drained, Acid
Water: Average
Tidy: Prune after flowering to maintain size. Prune out weak or damaged stems in early spring.
Fertilizer: Acid
Fertilizing cycle: Twice yearly – once in early spring, again after flowering in summer
Special Maintenance: In zone 5 plant in sheltered location and protect in winter.
Propagation: Take softwood cuttings in early summer, hardwood cuttings in winter.
Pests & Diseases: No serious problems. Occasional leaf blight or aphids.

Notes: The Oakleaf hydrangea is one of the few hydrangeas native to the United States. This large deciduous shrub is great in borders or as a focal point. It is a low maintenance plant that needs little pruning and does well in sun or shade. Although they can tolerate more sun than the typical Hydrangea, plant in an area with some afternoon shade for the best results. The irregular peeling bark on the stems provides winter interest.