Snow Queen Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia 'Snow Queen') is a distinctive deciduous flowering shrub prized for its large white flower clusters, bold oak-shaped foliage, exceptional fall color, and attractive peeling bark. Growing approximately 4-6 feet tall and wide, it develops a dense, upright-rounded habit that provides outstanding multi-season interest in the landscape.
Large, upright cone-shaped flower clusters emerge creamy white in early summer and gradually develop soft pink to rosy tones as they mature. Its large, deeply lobed green leaves provide a bold texture throughout summer before transforming into beautiful shades of burgundy, red, and purple in fall.
After the foliage drops, mature stems reveal attractive cinnamon-brown exfoliating bark, providing additional texture and winter interest. Snow Queen is an excellent choice for foundation plantings, woodland gardens, mixed borders, mass plantings, or as a specimen.
More About Snow Queen Oakleaf Hydrangea
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Low Maintenance
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Moderate Growing
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Deciduous Flowering Shrub
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Native Species Cultivar
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Large Upright Flower Clusters
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Excellent Fall Color
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Attractive Exfoliating Bark
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Multi-Season Interest
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Foundation Planting, Woodland Garden, Mixed Border, Mass Planting, Accent, Specimen
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Upright, Rounded Habit
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Attracts Pollinators
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Excellent Cut Flower
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Shade Tolerant
Height: 4-6 Feet
Spread: 4-6 Feet
Hardiness Zone: 5-9
Characteristics
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Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Part Shade
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Season of Interest: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
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Soil Moisture: Average to Moist, Well Draining
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Attributes: Flowering, Upright, Rounded, Native Species Cultivar, Multi-Season Interest
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Foliage Color: Green; Burgundy, Red and Purple in Fall
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Flower Color: Creamy White, Maturing to Soft Pink
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Bark: Cinnamon-Brown, Exfoliating
Care & Maintenance Tips
Planting:
Plant in full sun to part shade. Snow Queen performs especially well with morning sun and afternoon shade but can tolerate more sun when provided with adequate moisture. It prefers fertile, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. A protected location can be beneficial in colder areas.
Watering:
Water consistently during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, Snow Queen prefers average to consistent moisture but should not remain in waterlogged soil. Mulching around the root zone can help maintain soil moisture and protect the roots.
Fertilizing:
Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring if needed. Avoid excessive fertilization, which can encourage excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering.
Pruning:
Snow Queen blooms primarily on old wood, so avoid heavy pruning in late winter or early spring. If pruning is necessary, prune shortly after flowering to maintain the desired size and shape. Remove dead or damaged branches as needed.
