Hydrangea quercifolia 'Alice'

Oakleaf Hydrangea

Hydrangea quercifolia ‘Alice’ is a large deciduous shrub prized for its long upright white flower panicles, bold oak-like foliage, and outstanding fall color. This oakleaf hydrangea blooms in early to mid-summer, with flowers opening white and gradually aging to soft pink, rose, and tan. The large deeply lobed leaves turn rich burgundy, red, and purple in fall, while exfoliating cinnamon-brown bark adds winter interest.

Type: Deciduous shrub
Mature Size: Width: 8–10 ft · Height: 8–12 ft
USDA Zones: 5a–9b

Form: Upright, broad, rounded

Light: Full sun to part shade

Soil: Rich, moist, well-drained soil; tolerates drier conditions once established

Water: Medium; prefers regular moisture during establishment

Wildlife: Attracts bees and other pollinating insects

Features & Landscape Uses:
Excellent for woodland gardens, specimen planting, large borders, and naturalized areas where its large flowers, dramatic foliage, and bark provide year-round interest. ‘Alice’ is especially valued for its larger flowers and vigorous growth.

Care:
Plant in fertile, organic-rich soil with mulch to conserve moisture. Prune only after flowering if shaping is needed, since flower buds form on old wood. Once established, it is more drought tolerant than many other hydrangeas.

Plant type

Flowering Deciduous Shrub

Height

8-12'

Width

8-10'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Early Fall, Summer

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Red

Attracts

Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Soil

Moist well-drained, Rich

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Container, Foundation, Mass Planting

Shape

Broad, Rounded, Upright

Bark

Exfoliating

Fruit

Yes

Salt tolerant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No