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photo of William Flemer III

Meet the Breeder

William Flemer III
Kingston, NJ, USA

‘Snow Queen’

Hydrangea - Oakleaf

Hydrangea quercifolia

'Snow Queen'

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Snow Queen hydrangea covered in pointy white blooms "} Snow Queen hydrangea in the landscape with its white blooms fading to brown Snow Queen oakleaf hydrangea in the landscape displaying red and burgundy fall color
  • Native to North America
  • Large flowers
  • Award winner
Description

Large, tightly packed pure white panicles are held upright to create a unique summer flower display worthy of the name 'Snow Queen'. The flowers fade to light pink and the leathery leaves turn a superb burgundy autumn color. Selected by William Flemer III.

USDA Zone
5 - 9 (-20°F/-28.9°C)
Exposure
Full sun, Part sun
Height
7 - 10'
Width
7 - 10'
Finish Time
1 season
Type
Deciduous
Bloom Time
Summer
Flower Color
White
Foliage Color
Green
Liner Sizes
4"

Soil

Best in moist, well-drained soil, but quite adaptable to any site except excessively wet ones.

Pruning

Oakleaf hydrangea blooms on old wood, so it is generally best to avoid any kind of regular pruning or trimming. May be pruned selectively as needed to develop a more striking habit.

Uses

Mixed borders; woodland gardens; informal hedges and screens; foundation plantings.

Growing Tips

Oakleaf hydrangeas are perhaps the most shade-tolerant hydrangea, though blooming and fall color are best with at least some sun each day. They bloom on old wood and exhibit better bud hardiness than other old wood bloomers. These plants perform far better in the landscape than in the container/nursery environment, so don't be put off by a plant that looks less than enticing in its pot. It will redeem itself rapidly once planted in the ground.