'Ruby Slippers' Oakleaf Hydrangea

There's no place like home - especially when you have a 'Ruby Slippers' hydrangea planted there! This classic oakleaf hydrangea (H. quercifolia) is known, and named, for the dramatic red color its large flowers develop as they age. 'Ruby Slippers' is also a space-saver, reaching a nice, useful 3-3.5' tall and wide, the ideal size for home landscapes and gardens. Like all oakleaf hydrangeas, it's ideal as a hedge or specimen, and its lacecap flowers attract pollinators when they begin to bloom in early summer. 

What makes 'Ruby Slippers' different from other oakleaf hdyrangeas?

• Flowers start white like others, but develop a beautiful ruby-red hue as they age.
• Versatile small, compact habit can be used in several different landscape and garden applications.

Details:
Name: Hydrangea quercifolia 'Ruby Slippers'
Hardiness: USDA zones 5-9
Height + Width: 3-4'
Light: Full to part sun
Soil: Any well-drained soil will do. Some drought tolerance on established plants.
Pruning: Blooms on old wood; oakleaf hydrangeas can be selectively pruned as needed to accentuate their branching or habit.
Water: Average water needs. Does not tolerate wet conditions.
Fertilizer: Fertilize once in early spring with a rose fertilizer if desired.
Bloom time: Flowering begins in early summer, and the blooms continue to be colorful and attractive all the way through frost.
Bloom color: Large lacecap flowers start out pure white, then develop deep red tones as they age.
Uses: We love 'Ruby Slippers' incorporated into landscapes, woodland or wildlife gardens, as well as incorporated into flower gardens. You can't go wrong with this classic hydrangea!