Ruby Slippers Oakleaf Hydrangea. This new Oakleaf Hydrangea from the U. S. National Arboretum was developed by Dr. Sandy Reed at the McMinnville, TN, site, and it is by far the best pink/red Oakleaf to date. As one can see from the photos, the color is magnificent. The 9" flower trusses open white and then quickly turn pink and progressively to a deep rose. At seven years old, the original plant was 3.5' tall by 5' wide. I'm sure this cultivar will get larger than this, but it is a very compact tight grower. We have found that Oakleafs do best in a well drained soil with uniform moisture. And for light, filtered sun or morning sun and afternoon shade is preferred. I have seen them growing in full sun, but one can easily tell that they are stressed. I'm sure on the upper limits of their range, they would probably do well in full sun.
Zones 5-9
