Lawn Guardian

Oakleaf Hydrangea Care Guide

Hydrangea quercifolia

shrubZones 5–9nativedeer resistant

Native hydrangea with oak-shaped leaves that turn spectacular burgundy-red in fall. White cone-shaped flower panicles age to pink. Exfoliating bark adds winter interest.

At a glance

Season-by-season care

Spring

Remove only dead wood When new buds are visible

Like bigleaf hydrangea, oakleaf blooms on old wood. Only remove dead stems (gray and hollow). Do not cut live stems.

Summer

Leave flower heads After bloom

Flower panicles age beautifully from white to pink to tan. Leave them for extended interest.

Fall

Enjoy fall foliage October-November

Oakleaf hydrangea has some of the best fall color of any shrub -- deep burgundy to mahogany red.

Ecological value

Native to southeastern US forests. Flowers attract native pollinators. Provides shelter and food for wildlife. Fall berries eaten by birds.

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Related plants

Sources: Purdue University Turfgrass Science: Use Growing Degree Days to Better Time Your Applications · University of Missouri Extension: Cool-Season Grasses: Lawn Maintenance Calendar · University of Minnesota Extension: Pre-emergent Herbicides for Crabgrass Control in Lawns