Alice Oakleaf Hydrangea
Hydrangea quercifolia ‘Alice’Hydrangea quercifolia ‘Alice’, commonly known as the Alice Oakleaf Hydrangea, is a magnificent native flowering shrub admired for its bold presence and seasonal beauty. This exceptional cultivar stands out for its enormous, elongated clusters of white blooms that appear in early to midsummer. Each bloom cluster can reach up to 12 inches long, creating a stunning display that gradually transitions to soft pink tones as the season progresses. The broad, deeply lobed foliage adds a unique, textural quality reminiscent of oak leaves, lending a sense of depth and structure to shaded gardens and naturalized landscapes.
Beyond its showy summer flowers, Alice continues to captivate throughout the year. In autumn, its foliage ignites with brilliant shades of burgundy, mahogany, and red-orange, offering a spectacular fall display. During winter, its peeling bark provides subtle interest and texture, making it a true four-season performer. Vigorous and fast-growing, Alice is one of the largest and most robust Oakleaf Hydrangea varieties, making it an excellent choice for use as a specimen plant or foundation shrub.
Native to the southeastern United States, this adaptable and low-maintenance shrub thrives in a variety of soil types and provides valuable habitat for pollinators. Its ability to perform well in partial shade, combined with its exceptional ornamental features, makes Hydrangea quercifolia ‘Alice’ an ideal addition to woodland gardens, shaded borders, and native plant landscapes.
Care Instructions:
Planting: Choose a location with rich, well-draining soil and partial shade. Avoid overly dry or exposed sites.
Sunlight: Prefers partial shade; tolerates full sun if soil remains consistently moist.
Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, particularly during the first growing season and during dry spells.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
Pruning: Prune only after flowering to remove spent blooms and shape the plant; avoid heavy pruning as blooms form on old wood.
Winter Care: Add a layer of mulch around the base in late fall to insulate roots and retain moisture.
Companion Plants: Complements hostas, ferns, and astilbes in shaded garden beds.
