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Public Plant Profile

Ruby Slippers Oakleaf Hydrangea

Hydrangea quercifolia 'Ruby Slippers'

Category: Deciduous Shrub • Hydrangea

Discover Ruby Slippers Oakleaf Hydrangea, a stunning choice for foundation planting with beautiful blooms and foliage.

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Mature Height: 3-4 feet

Mature Width: 3-4 feet

Bloom Color: White,Pink

Bloom Time: Summer

Light: Part Sun/Part Shade

Zone: Zones 5-9

Maintenance: Moderate

Growth Rate: Moderate

Season of Interest: Multi-season

Foliage: Deciduous

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Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

Ruby Slippers Oakleaf Hydrangea is a compact deciduous shrub known for its stunning white blooms that age to pink. Its oak-shaped leaves turn vibrant red in fall, adding seasonal interest.

Ideal Conditions

Prefers partial shade to full sun and moist, well-drained soil. Thrives in a sheltered location.

Soil Preferences

Requires well-drained soil with moderate moisture. Adaptable to a range of pH levels.

Sun Needs

Part Sun/Part Shade

Watering Needs

Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells, but avoid waterlogging.

Pruning Notes

Prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged wood.

Fertilizing Notes

Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth.

Common Issues

Watch for powdery mildew and leaf spot; ensure good air circulation to minimize these problems.

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

foundation plantingspecimen

Special Features

Attractive foliageshowy flowersfall color

Wildlife Value

Attracts pollinators and provides habitat for birds.

Resistance / Tolerance

Drought tolerant once established.

Notes from Our Designer

Great for adding texture and color to gardens. Works well in mixed borders.

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Design Ideas Using This Plant

Use this page to get a feel for where Ruby Slippers Oakleaf Hydrangea may fit in the landscape, then explore similar plants below for more ideas on form, texture, and overall planting style.

What Clients Say

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“Josh designed and installed a two-tiered paver-stone patio for us as well as front and backyard landscaping. I could not be more thrilled with the job they did! It looks simply fantastic. I've known Josh for several…”

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“Bold Outdoors has provided the highest quality professional landscape design, installation and after installation services at my residence since April, 2014. Josh Graber, the owner of the company, listened to input from…”

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Helpful Next Steps

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ruby Slippers Oakleaf Hydrangea a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

Next Step

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