Oakleaf Hydrangea - Hydrangea quercifolia 'Snow Queen'

Hydrangea quercifolia 'Snow Queen' is a truly exceptional deciduous shrub that earns its place in the garden through every season of the year. In summer, large pyramid-shaped flower heads of pure white emerge above distinctive oak-shaped leaves, gradually fading to soft pale pink as the season progresses. Then in autumn, the foliage puts on a breathtaking second act, transitioning from rich bronze through to deep burgundy shades that rival the best autumn-colouring plants available. Growing to approximately 1.5m tall and 1.5m wide, 'Snow Queen' is a standout feature plant for shady garden positions.

Unlike many hydrangeas, the Oakleaf Hydrangea offers genuine four-season interest, with attractive exfoliating bark providing winter structure after the leaves have fallen. It thrives in semi shade with loam and well-drained soils, and suits shady borders, courtyards, and garden beds under trees. Keep moist during dry periods, mulch well, and feed regularly for the most spectacular flowering and autumn colour display.

Key Features:

• Soil: Prefers loam and well-drained soils enriched with organic matter. Avoid heavy, waterlogged conditions.
• Light: Thrives in semi shade. Protect from harsh afternoon sun, particularly in hot climates.
• Watering: Keep moist during dry periods as 'Snow Queen' has low drought tolerance. Water deeply and regularly through summer and autumn to support healthy foliage and flowering.
• Fertiliser: Apply an annual slow-release fertiliser in spring and supplement with liquid feed through the growing season to support large flower heads and vibrant autumn foliage colour.
• Maintenance: Medium maintenance. Mulch well around the base to retain moisture and keep roots cool. Prune lightly after flowering, removing spent flower heads and any dead or weak stems. Avoid heavy pruning as this plant flowers on old wood.
• Flowering: Large pyramid-shaped white flower heads appear in summer, gradually fading to pale pink through autumn. Flowers are excellent for cutting both fresh and dried.

Position 'Snow Queen' where you can enjoy both its summer flowers and its autumn foliage from a key vantage point such as a window, seating area, or garden path. The exfoliating cinnamon-coloured bark also provides beautiful winter interest once the leaves have fallen, making this one of the few shrubs that genuinely earns its space in the garden all year round.

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