Oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia)

Also known as: Ruby Slippers, Sikes Dwarf, Oak-leaved hydrangea

The oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia) originates from the southeastern United States, typically ranging from North Carolina to Florida. It was identified by botanist William Bartram in the 1770s. This plant is commonly cultivated as an ornamental feature in gardens and parks.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Oakleaf hydrangea

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub

Plant Height

91 cm to 3.5 m

Spread

1.2 m to 3 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

8 cm to 13 cm

Flower Color

White Cream Pink Purple Red

Images of Oakleaf hydrangea

Quickly Identify Oakleaf hydrangea

Deciduous shrub reaching 8 feet (2.4 meters) with deeply lobed, oak-like leaves.

Prominent terminal buds with fuzzy tomentose texture.

Showy pyramidal panicles with transitioning white to pink flowers.

Leaves are large, leathery, lobed, and showcase vibrant autumn colors.

Upright stem with exfoliating cinnamon-brown bark and large terminal bud.

Scientific Classification of Oakleaf hydrangea

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Dogwoods, hydrangeas, and allies

Family

Hydrangea

Genus

Hydrangeas

Species

Oakleaf hydrangea

Planting and Growing of Oakleaf hydrangea

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-6 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Oakleaf hydrangea?

For Hydrangea quercifolia, ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. When watering, make sure the top 2 inches of soil are saturated but that there's no standing water. A deep watering of about 1000 ml will suit a medium-sized shrub in well-draining soil.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Oakleaf hydrangea? ›

What should I do if my Oakleaf hydrangea is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Oakleaf hydrangea? ›

How to save an overwatered Oakleaf hydrangea? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Oakleaf hydrangea?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Hydrangea quercifolia thrives best with partial sun to full sun. This ideal lighting encourages prolific blooming and healthy foliage development, vital for the plant's aesthetic and biological health.

What are the ideal lighting conditions for Hydrangea quercifolia? ›

How can I achieve ideal lighting for my hydrangea? ›

What are the benefits of ideal lighting for oakleaf hydrangeas? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Oakleaf hydrangea?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Hydrangea quercifolia, commonly known as oakleaf hydrangea, is between 60°F and 75°F. This range allows the plant to thrive by providing enough warmth for optimal photosynthesis and growth, without stressing the plant with excessive heat. Keeping the temperature within this range promotes healthy leaf development and vibrant blooms.

What Soil is Best for Oakleaf hydrangea?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Acidic soil

Soil PH: 6 ~ 7.5

Oakleaf hydrangeas thrive in soil that retains moisture well but also drains adequately. This balance keeps the plant hydrated without waterlogging its roots, promoting healthy growth and vibrant foliage. Soil enriched with organic matter, such as compost or decomposed leaves, provides essential nutrients and improves soil structure. This nurtures the hydrangea's health, supporting robust blooms and sustainable plant vigor. The plant requires soil that efficiently drains excess water to prevent root rot. Adequate drainage is crucial for maintaining root health and ensuring the plant receives necessary oxygen.

How to Fertilize Oakleaf hydrangea?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Hydrangea quercifolia, it is recommended to apply a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. During the growing season, use 1 tablespoon of liquid fertilizer per gallon of water, ensuring the soil is moist before application to prevent root burn.

How to Prune Oakleaf hydrangea?

Pruning Time: Summer, Autumn

The best time to prune Oakleaf Hydrangeas (Hydrangea quercifolia) is after they have finished blooming in the late summer or early autumn. This timing allows you to enjoy their beautiful blossoms while encouraging better growth and flowering for the next season. Start by identifying and removing any dead or damaged stems. These are typically discolored or brittle. Cutting these away will not only improve the plant’s appearance but also its overall health. After removing the dead wood, focus on shaping the plant by cutting back overly long stems to maintain a pleasing form. This step helps to keep the hydrangea looking tidy and well-proportioned.

How to Propagate Oakleaf hydrangea plant?

Propagate Time: Late spring, Early summer

Choose healthy, non-flowering shoots of Hydrangea quercifolia that are about 6 inches long for cuttings. Remove the lower leaves and retain a couple of leaves at the top to promote photosynthesis.

Prepare a pot with a well-draining potting mix, which could include perlite or sand, to ensure proper drainage and aeration. This environment prevents waterlogging which can lead to rot.

Insert the cutting into the soil at a slight angle after applying rooting hormone. Firm the soil around the base of the cutting to ensure stability and water lightly to provide initial moisture.

How to Repot Oakleaf hydrangea plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Repot Hydrangea quercifolia when you notice roots circling the bottom of the pot or when its growth has stalled despite proper care. This usually happens every 2-3 years. Spring and autumn are ideal as the plant sees less environmental stress and can easily recover in these seasons.

Select a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. It should have adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which Hydrangea quercifolia dislikes. A terracotta pot is recommended as it allows the soil to breathe, reducing the risk of root rot.

Choose a well-draining loamy soil mixed with organic matter. This type of soil retains moisture essential for hydration but drains excess water, preventing root rot. Such soil replicates the plant's natural woodland habitat, promoting healthy growth.

Toxicity of Oakleaf hydrangea

Is Oakleaf hydrangea toxic to cat?

The oakleaf hydrangea represents a considerable danger to cats, categorized as highly toxic. Felines may accidentally ingest various parts of the plant, which can induce poisoning. This risk arises from consuming any portion of the oakleaf hydrangea, including its flowers, leaves, and bark. Following ingestion, affected cats may display symptoms of physical distress or illness, requiring urgent veterinary intervention. To safeguard cats, it is essential to restrict their access to oakleaf hydrangea and to promptly seek professional help if poisoning is feared.

Is Oakleaf hydrangea toxic to dog?

The oakleaf hydrangea is recognized as a toxic species for dogs. If dogs consume any part of the plant, including its flowers, leaves, or bark, they may experience poisoning. This ingestion frequently occurs unintentionally while dogs are exploring or playing in environments where oakleaf hydrangea is present. Following the consumption of parts of the oakleaf hydrangea, dogs may show signs like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and depression. It is vital for pet owners to keep a close watch on their dogs and restrict their access to oakleaf hydrangea to prevent any experience of accidental poisoning. In cases where a dog has ingested oakleaf hydrangea, it is critical to seek prompt veterinary assistance to ensure the best possible outcome for the animal.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.