shrub · design plant record

Hydrangea quercifolia

Oakleaf hydrangea

A substantial shrub with summer flower heads, autumn leaf colour and visible winter branches.

Height at maturity

1.22–2.44 m (4–8 ft)

Spread at maturity

1.22–3.05 m (4–10 ft)

Light

Sun / Part shade

Moisture

Drier soil after establishment / Moist, draining soil

Source-reported USDA zones

5–9 · verify subzone and cultivar

Principal seasonal role

Summer, Autumn, Winter

Fit it to the site

Organically rich, moist, draining soil. Some sun supports flowering.

Do not force a species shrub into a small gap by assuming dwarf-cultivar dimensions. The source’s dimension field reaches 10 ft wide, beyond its 8 ft introductory description; this record allows the larger extent.

Keep the care in the decision

Flowers form on old wood. If pruning is needed, time it after flowering; remove winter-damaged stems appropriately.

Origin & safety checks

Southeastern United States; check the local native range.

NC State flags poisonous parts. Assess child and pet exposure; wildlife food use is not human edibility.

Check current invasive restrictions with your local plant-health or extension authority. For pets, use the exact botanical name in a veterinary toxicity reference; for potential ingestion or exposure, get appropriate professional advice rather than relying on a design guide.