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| Hydrangea quercifolia
Oakleaf hydrangeaCulture: Tender as a young plant and needing protection in zone 5, this species flowers on old wood. The terminally borne flower buds are sometimes injured below -10 degrees F, resulting in no flowering the following summer. This species prefers cool moist conditions and sun to part shade. An organic mulch is recommended to keep roots moist during the hot and dry parts of summer. Very few problems are associated with this plant other than borderline winter hardiness. Usage: A hardy selection is needed for northern gardens. This plant is a favorite of many gardeners. It has long lasting, showy flowers in late summer, spectacular red to deep purple fall color and interesting attractive bark. A popular cultivar is 'Snow Queen' because of the upright held inflorescence and improved cold hardiness. I prefer the more droopy flower clusters of the species. Leave the spent flowers attached all winter to give the winter garden some textural interest. |
