Hydrangea quercifolia 'Ruby Slippers'
Hydrangea quercifolia 'Ruby Slippers' is a compact oakleaf hydrangea valued for its large cone shaped flower clusters that emerge white and gradually deepen to rich rose red as the season progresses. Its bold oakleaf foliage provides strong texture through summer before turning shades of burgundy and red in fall, adding multi season interest to shaded and partially sunny landscapes.
Height & Spread: 36 - 48 in x 36 - 48 in
Bloom Time: Early to midsummer
Light Requirements: Part sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Average well drained soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture
Deer Resistance: Moderately deer resistant
Native Status
This shrub is a cultivated selection of Hydrangea quercifolia, a species native to the southeastern United States. It retains the durability and adaptability of the species while offering improved compact size and enhanced flower color.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Attracts Swallowtails and other nectar seeking butterflies which visit the large flower clusters during the bloom period.
Bees
- Supports native bees and bumblebees which gather nectar and pollen from the fertile florets within the blooms.
Birds
- Provides seasonal cover and structure for small birds while contributing to habitat value in layered plantings.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 36 - 48 in apart to allow room for its rounded shrub form to mature fully.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for foundation plantings, woodland edges, and mixed shrub borders where its bold foliage and changing flower color create strong seasonal interest.
Companion Plants
- Clethra alnifolia 'Hummingbird' (Summersweet) - Adds fragrant summer blooms and thrives in similar moisture and light conditions.
- Itea virginica 'Little Henry' (Sweetspire) - Offers fragrant white flowers and outstanding fall color that complements oakleaf hydrangea.
- Fothergilla gardenii (Dwarf Fothergilla) - Provides early spring blooms and brilliant fall foliage for multi season interest.
- Heuchera 'Caramel' (Coral Bells) - Brings warm toned foliage that contrasts with the bold leaves of hydrangea.
- Carex pensylvanica (Pennsylvania Sedge) - Creates a soft ground layer that works well in woodland style plantings.