Hydrangea quercifolia 'Jetstream'

Hydrangea quercifolia 'Jetstream': Compact Oakleaf Beauty with Orange-Red Fall Fire

Hydrangea quercifolia 'Jetstream' is a First Editions® oakleaf hydrangea with a dense, compact habit and a clean, upright look that holds its shape beautifully. In early summer, beautiful white flowers bloom on strong stems and slowly age to pink, adding a soft, shifting colour story as the season progresses. Lustrous dark green foliage stays handsome and resists leaf spot, then turns an amazing orange-red in fall for a truly show-stopping finish. Exfoliating brown bark and persistent dried flower heads add welcome winter interest once the leaves drop.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 5–6’
• Spread: 4–5’
• Flower Colour: White, aging to pink
• Flowering Period: Early summer
• Foliage: Lustrous dark green foliage turning orange-red in fall; exfoliating brown bark adds winter interest
• Sunlight Requirements: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soil, enriched with organic matter

Uses and Benefits: Ideal for foundation plantings, mixed shrub borders, and woodland-edge gardens where you want strong structure and multi-season interest. Its compact form makes it easy to fit into designed landscapes, while the fall colour delivers a bold seasonal highlight that reads from across the yard. Use it in small groups or mass plantings for a rich, textured effect, and enjoy the added winter character from its exfoliating bark and dried flower heads.

Care Instructions: Water regularly during the first season to establish strong roots, then provide deep watering during prolonged heat or drought. Mulch helps maintain even soil moisture and supports healthy growth. Prune only if needed, and do so right after flowering to avoid removing next season’s buds. A spring top-dressing of compost supports vigorous growth and strong foliage colour.

History: Oakleaf hydrangea is a North American native valued for bold foliage, showy blooms, and exceptional fall colour. First Editions® selected 'Jetstream' for its compact, non-flopping habit, strong stems, and handsome foliage that finishes the season in vivid orange-red tones.

Final Thoughts: For gardeners who want a refined oakleaf hydrangea that stays neat, blooms beautifully, and finishes with unforgettable fall colour, Jetstream brings four-season value in one confident shrub.