Snow Queen Oakleaf Hydrangea

Snow Queen Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia 'Snow Queen') is a large shrub about 2m tall and wide, with big lobed leaves and long white flower cones from late spring into early autumn. The flowers take on a pink blush as they age, and the leaves flush red and orange when the weather cools. It is frost hardy and tolerates more sun than the species.

Why you'll love it

• Three seasons of interest. White flower cones from late spring, a pink blush by early autumn, then red and orange leaf colour as the weather cools.
• Bold foliage. The big lobed leaves make a handsome plant even without flowers, and you could enjoy it for the foliage alone.
• Frost hardy. It copes with cold winters, dropping its leaves in autumn and returning in spring.
• More sun tolerant. Snow Queen takes more sun than the species form, which gives more flexibility in siting.
• A different shape. Conical flower heads instead of round mopheads give a more upright, woodland look.

Where it works best

Woodland and cottage gardens. Allow 2m between plants for a specimen, or 1.5m for a closer, softer mass. It suits sheltered, partly shaded beds.

Autumn colour feature. Plant it where the red and orange leaves show against evergreens or a pale wall.

Large containers. A very large pot will do for some years, with regular watering and shelter from hot afternoon sun.

Growing Snow Queen Oakleaf Hydrangea in Australia

Position and climate. A sheltered spot in part shade suits it best, and it grows well in cool temperate and warm temperate gardens. Its extra sun tolerance still has limits, so protect it from harsh sunlight.

Soil. Rich soil with plenty of organic matter that stays moist but drains. Mulch the roots to keep them cool.

Water and feed. Water regularly for the first two to three months while it establishes, and through any dry spells after that. Feed with a slow release fertiliser in early spring.

Pruning. Oakleaf hydrangeas carry next season's flowers on old wood, so give them room and avoid hard cutting. Remove faded heads just above the next healthy leaves. All parts of the plant are toxic if eaten.

What to expect when it arrives

Snow Queen Oakleaf Hydrangea is sold as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. Expect a small plant on arrival, as this is a large shrub that needs a few seasons to fill out and flower freely.

The tube comes from our grower and is not always in stock. When the grower has none, it shows as sold out, and the notify button on the page emails you the day it is back.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Our full hydrangea range
• Hydrangea colour and pruning guide
• Plants with autumn colour
• Deciduous shrubs

Common questions

How is an oakleaf hydrangea different?

It has large, lobed, oak shaped leaves and long conical flower heads rather than round mopheads, plus red and orange autumn leaf colour.

Does it need shade?

It prefers a sheltered, partly shaded position, though Snow Queen copes with more sun than the species. Keep it watered and protected from harsh sunlight.

Is it toxic to pets?

Yes. Hydrangeas are toxic to dogs and cats if eaten, so plant it where pets cannot chew the leaves or flowers.