OAK-LEAVED HYDRANGEA

THERE are several reasons for growing this handsome American species. Depending on autumn weather, the slightly oak-like leaves colour to bronzy purple-red. Growing about 2 m high with a spread of up to 2.5 m, mature shrubs produce an abundance of flowers in long-lasting panicles. They’re creamy white when young, turning rusty with age. This is a shrub of the forest floor, performing best in partial shade. Neutral to acid soil is preferable, but like most hydrangeas, H. quercifolia thrives in all soils other than pure chalk or limestone. Fully frost hardy, it prefers a sheltered position.