| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Oakleaf Hydrangea 'Snow Queen' |
| Scientific Name | Hydrangea quercifolia 'Snow Queen' |
| Description | Hydrangea quercifolia 'Snow Queen', commonly known as Oakleaf Hydrangea 'Snow Queen', is a deciduous shrub prized for its stunning foliage and cone-shaped flower clusters. It is a cultivar of Hydrangea quercifolia, native to the southeastern United States. 'Snow Queen' features large, deeply lobed, oak-like leaves that emerge green in spring, turn dark green in summer, and transform into beautiful shades of bronze, burgundy, and purple in autumn. In early to mid-summer, it produces showy, elongated flower clusters composed of small, white florets that gradually turn pink as they age. The flowers persist on the plant for several weeks, providing a lovely display. This cultivar is compact in size and has a mounding growth habit. It is an excellent choice for borders, woodland gardens, and as a focal point in the landscape. 'Snow Queen' prefers moist, well-drained soil and thrives in partial shade to full sun conditions. |
| Height | 4 to 6 feet (1.2 to 1.8 meters) |
| Spread | 4 to 6 feet (1.2 to 1.8 meters) |
| Foliage | Large, deeply lobed, oak-like leaves |
| Flowers | Cone-shaped clusters of white-to-pink florets |
| Flowering Season | Early to mid-summer |
| Fall Color | Bronze, burgundy, and purple foliage in autumn |
| Growth Habit | Compact, mounding |
| Soil Requirements | Moist, well-drained soil |
| Soil Types | Various soil types, prefers fertile soil |
| Drainage | Good drainage is essential |
| Sunlight | Partial shade to full sun |
| Temperature | In the UK, it can be grown in various regions, including those with temperate and mild climates. |
| Watering | Regular watering, keeping soil evenly moist |
| Maintenance | Prune as needed to maintain desired shape |
Hydrangea quercifolia 'Snow Queen', or Oakleaf Hydrangea 'Snow Queen', is a beautiful deciduous shrub that offers multi-season interest. With its large, oak-like leaves, cone-shaped flower clusters, and stunning fall foliage, it adds a touch of elegance to the garden. It thrives in partially shaded areas and prefers moist, well-drained soil.
Oakleaf Hydrangea is particularly well-suited to the UK climate because it tolerates cooler temperatures and is more resistant to frost than some other hydrangea varieties. However, it's worth noting that extreme cold or prolonged periods of frost can still potentially damage the plant. Providing some winter protection, such as mulching around the base of the plant, can help insulate the roots and protect them from cold temperatures.