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About this plant
Hydrangea
Hydrangeas are shrubs and climbers from East Asia and the Americas, grown for their large flower heads in which showy sterile florets ring or hide the small fertile flowers. Many grow wild along woodland edges, in filtered light and in acid, humus-rich soil that holds moisture yet drains freely; a pH between about 4.5 and 7 suits them best. They flower for weeks in summer.
Oak-leaved hydrangea Hydrangea quercifolia
Named after the oak-like shape of its foliage, this hydrangea from the south-eastern United States has deeply lobed, hairy leaves up to 20 cm long, felted beneath and brilliantly coloured in autumn. It forks higher up rather than at the base, has reddish, felty, peeling stems and reaches 2 m or more within 5 to 10 years. Large white flower cones follow from July to September, turning pink as they age.
Location and soil
Prefers filtered sun or partial shade, but also tolerates plenty of sun and drought, as well as shade. Very free-draining soil is essential: it dies in compacted or waterlogged ground. The shrub itself is hardy, but give it a spot somewhat sheltered from cold east and north winds. Its foliage is semi-evergreen, lasting until late March after a mild winter but falling once frost passes about -7 °C.
Pruning and care
Flowers on the previous year's wood and needs little pruning; cutting back in spring costs flowers. Leave the dried clusters on over winter and remove them in April. The plumes can be so heavy that the branches bend, so give large plants some support. Keep mulch away from the base of the stems.
Use in the garden
Decorative all year round thanks to its bold foliage, long flowering and autumn colour. Use it as a specimen, in borders, along a path or in an informal hedge; it is less suited to container growing.
Plant characteristics
Botanical
| Family | Hydrangeaceae |
| Genus | Hydrangea |
| Species | quercifolia |
| Cultivar | 'Amethyst' |
Care
| Pruning | april |
