Hydrangea quercifolia 'Ruby Slippers'

Hydrangea quercifolia 'Ruby Slippers': White Summer Panicles, Ruby-Red Fall Finish

Hydrangea quercifolia 'Ruby Slippers' is a standout oakleaf hydrangea that brings strong seasonal change in a compact, landscape-friendly form. Large white flower panicles bloom in early summer, then mature to a rich ruby-red in fall while staying upright on the branches. Deeply lobed, dark green foliage adds bold texture through summer and turns a warm mahogany in autumn, creating a layered, finished look. It is the kind of shrub that looks beautiful in bloom, then keeps earning its space long after the flowers have changed colour.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 4’
• Spread: 4–5’
• Flower Colour: White, maturing to ruby-red in fall
• Flowering Period: Early summer to early fall
• Foliage: Deeply lobed, dark green oak-like leaves turning mahogany in fall
• Sunlight Requirements: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soil, enriched with organic matter

Uses and Benefits: A strong choice for foundation plantings, mixed shrub borders, and woodland-edge designs where you want multi-season interest in a manageable size. The upright panicles provide excellent structure in summer, and the ruby-red bloom finish brings a rich late-season accent. Its bold foliage texture helps it pair easily with fine-leaved grasses and evergreen shapes, and it works well as a specimen or in small groups for a cohesive, designed look.

Care Instructions: Water regularly during the first season to establish, then water deeply during prolonged heat or drought. Mulch helps maintain even soil moisture and supports healthy roots. Prune lightly only as needed, ideally right after flowering, and focus on removing dead wood or correcting shape. A spring top-dressing of compost supports vigorous growth, strong foliage colour, and reliable flowering.

History: Oakleaf hydrangea is a North American native prized for its distinctive foliage and fall colour. 'Ruby Slippers' was selected for its compact mound, upright panicles, and its signature transformation from white summer blooms to ruby-red fall colour, paired with mahogany-toned autumn leaves.

Final Thoughts: If you want a shrub that shifts beautifully from summer bloom to fall colour, Ruby Slippers delivers a rich, layered performance that makes the garden feel finished in every season.