Hydrangea quercifolia 'Snow Queen' is a compact oakleaf hydrangea selected for its strong upright form and long lasting white flower panicles. The blooms age to a soft pink and are complemented by dark green foliage that turn a vibrant burgundy. It offers year round interest with its striking bark and flower form.
Height & Spread: 4 - 6 ft x 4 - 6 ft
Bloom Time: Early to midsummer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist, rich, well drained soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; does best with consistent moisture
Deer Resistance: Moderately deer resistant
Native Status
This cultivar is derived from the southeastern native Hydrangea quercifolia. 'Snow Queen' is a garden selection noted for its improved upright structure and floral impact.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Pollinators
- Fertile flowers attract small native bees and other beneficial insects.
Birds
- Birds seek shelter in the foliage and branch structure, especially in layered shrub plantings.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 4 - 6 ft apart to maintain form and ensure healthy airflow in grouped plantings.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for cottage gardens, woodland edges, and low shrub borders. Great as a foundation planting or informal hedge.
Companion Plants
- Carex pensylvanica (Pennsylvania Sedge) - A native ground cover that softens the base of shrubs in part shade.
- Clethra alnifolia (Summersweet) - Blooms later in summer, extending the flowering season in a moist woodland bed.
- Aruncus dioicus (Goats Beard) - Provides fluffy white flowers and a bold foliage texture to match Hydrangea’s bloom time.
- Trillium grandiflorum - Adds early spring interest in shade gardens beneath deciduous shrubs.
- Hosta 'June' - Offers dramatic foliage with yellow and blue tones under taller shrubs.