Oak Leaf Hydrangea: A Fall Garden Star with History

In 1775, American naturalist William Bartram first described the oak leaf hydrangea while exploring south-central Georgia. He noted its distinctive "oak-like leaves," giving rise to the scientific name Hydrangea quercifolia (Quercus is Latin for oak).

Oak leaf hydrangea brings brilliant burgundy fall color and showy panicles of blooms to the garden. These shade-tolerant shrubs thrive as understory plants and in north-facing gardens with limited light.

Urban Roots carries three varieties:

• 'Snow Queen' – upright with panicles of flowers and burgundy fall foliage.
• 'Amethyst' – white panicles that turn wine-red and retain color when dried.
• 'Munchkin' – compact variety with white flowers aging to pink.