Oakleaf Hydrangea Hydrangea quercifolia 'Applause'
ABOUT
The Hydrangea quercifolia 'Applause', commonly known as oakleaf hydrangea, boasts a striking appearance characterized by its unique foliage and attractive floral displays. The leaves of this plant resemble the shape of oak tree leaves, with deep lobes and a rich green color that often turns to beautiful shades of red, bronze, and purple in the fall, offering a stunning display of autumnal color. During the blooming period, the oakleaf hydrangea produces large, conical flower clusters that open as white and gradually transition to a pinkish hue as they age. These impressive flowers can add a touch of elegance to any garden. The bark on the plant is noteworthy as well, peeling back to reveal a rich brown inner layer that provides visual interest even in the absence of leaves or flowers. The oakleaf hydrangea is appreciated not only for its seasonal transformations in leaf color and blossoms but also for its stately, textured foliage that adds depth and contrast to garden compositions.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Hydrangeaceae
Synonyms
Oakleaf Hydrangea, Oak-leaved Hydrangea
Common names
Hydrangea quercifolia 'Applause'.
ToxicityTo humans
Oakleaf hydrangea is not considered highly toxic to humans, but it does contain compounds that can be potentially harmful if ingested. The plant contains cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide in the body when chewed or digested. Symptoms of poisoning may include stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In more severe cases, ingestion could lead to symptoms associated with cyanide poisoning, which can include difficulty breathing, seizures, and possibly coma. It is important to seek medical attention if ingestion is suspected.
To pets
Oakleaf hydrangea is considered mildly toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. Like in humans, the plant contains cyanogenic glycosides which can release cyanide when the plant material is chewed or digested by pets. If a pet ingests part of an oakleaf hydrangea, they might experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or in more serious cases, difficulty breathing and increased heart rate. Owners should contact a veterinarian if they suspect their pet has consumed parts of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
6 feet (1.83 meters)
Spread
6 feet (1.83 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Southeastern United States
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: The 'Applause' cultivar of Oakleaf Hydrangea offers striking foliage that transitions from deep green to reddish-purple in the fall.
- Showy Flowers: It produces large, showy white flower clusters that gradually turn pinkish as they age, providing visual interest throughout the blooming season.
- Shade Tolerance: This plant can thrive in partial shade, making it suitable for gardens with light limitations.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, Oakleaf Hydrangea is moderately drought tolerant, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Winter Interest: The peeling bark and remaining dried flower panicles provide textural interest during the winter months.
- Easy Propagation: Hydrangea quercifolia can be easily propagated from cuttings, making it relatively simple for gardeners to create new plants.
- Attracts Wildlife: The flowers can attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing the biodiversity of the garden space.
- Low Maintenance: It requires minimal pruning and care once established, ideal for gardens where low maintenance is a priority.
- Soil Adaptability: Adaptable to a range of soil conditions, though it prefers well-drained soil with ample organic matter.
- Erosion Control: Its dense growth habit can help in stabilizing soil and preventing erosion on slopes.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- With its broad, oak-like leaves, oakleaf hydrangea is often used in bonsai creations, providing a beautiful and unique appearance that emulates larger trees on a miniature scale.
- Oakleaf hydrangea can be utilized as a natural dye, with various parts of the plants, such as leaves and blooms, creating different shades on fabrics.
- The wood of oakleaf hydrangea, when dried, can be used for small woodworking projects like crafting decorative inlays for furniture due to its fine grain.
- In floral art, the dried flower heads of oakleaf hydrangea can be spray-painted and used as everlasting elements in arrangements and wreaths.
- Its large leaves can be used in garden compost to add valuable nutrients and organic matter as they decompose.
- For culinary presentation, the large sturdy leaves of oakleaf hydrangea can be used as natural serving dishes for outdoor appetizers.
- Creative gardeners might plant oakleaf hydrangea in outdoor fairy gardens, using the textured bark and branching structure as a backdrop for miniature landscapes.
- During fall, the leaves of oakleaf hydrangea provide excellent natural mulch, helping to insulate plant roots and conserve soil moisture.
- Photographers and filmmakers sometimes utilize oakleaf hydrangea in outdoor shoots to add depth and interest to natural scenes through its vibrant foliage.
- Teachers and parents may use the large, distinctive leaves of oakleaf hydrangea for educational leaf-rubbing activities with children to explore plant texture and shape.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Oakleaf Hydrangea is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Oakleaf Hydrangea is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Heartfelt and Sincere Emotions: Hydrangeas are often associated with genuine emotion because of their lush and abundant flowers, symbolizing the fullness of feeling.
- Gratitude: Giving hydrangeas as a gift, particularly the Oakleaf hydrangea, can express thankfulness, making them a popular choice for expressing appreciation.
- Understanding: The complex structure of the hydrangea's blooms reflects the multifaceted nature of understanding, suggesting depth and thoughtfulness.
- Vanity or Boastfulness: In some cultures, hydrangeas symbolize vanity due to their showy and abundant flowers.
- Abundance and Prosperity: The lavish appearance of the hydrangea's flowers signifies abundance and can imply wishes for prosperity.
WaterOakleaf hydrangeas, such as 'Applause', prefer consistent moisture and should be watered deeply, especially during dry periods. Watering frequency should be around once a week, though this may vary depending on climate and soil. Provide about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water at each watering session to ensure the soil is moist but not soggy. In hotter temperatures or for plants in containers, check the soil moisture level more frequently as they may require additional water. Cut back on watering in the fall, as the plant prepares for dormancy.
LightOakleaf hydrangeas thrive in conditions that offer full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot for 'Applause' hydrangea would have morning sunlight and afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. They can tolerate more sun in cooler climates but should be protected from the harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch.
TemperatureOakleaf hydrangeas, including 'Applause', are hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as 0 to -10°F and as high as 80 to 90°F. However, the ideal temperature range for this plant is between 65 and 75°F. Extreme temperatures can stress the plant, so providing protection from freezing winter winds and intense summer heat is beneficial.
PruningPrune oakleaf hydrangeas like 'Applause' immediately after flowering to maintain shape and size, as they bloom on old wood. Remove any dead or weak stems and prune about one-third of the older stems to the ground to encourage vigorous growth. Pruning is best done by mid to late summer to avoid cutting off next year's flower buds. Regular pruning helps to rejuvenate the plant and maintain a tidy appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilOakleaf Hydrangea prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter; a mix of loam, peat moss, and coarse sand is ideal. Maintain a soil pH of 5.5 to 6.5 to support healthy growth.
RepottingOakleaf Hydrangea typically doesn't require frequent repotting; it can be repotted every 3-5 years or when it outgrows its current container.
Humidity & MistingOakleaf Hydrangea thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, generally around 50-60%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light, ensure high humidity.
Outdoor
Partial sun; shelter from harsh afternoon rays.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the Oakleaf Hydrangea 'Applause' begins with seed germination, which occurs when soil temperatures and moisture levels are favorable, usually in spring. After germination, the seedling stage follows, with the initial growth of roots, stems, and the first set of true leaves. As the plant matures, it enters the vegetative stage, focusing on leaf and branch development to build a robust framework for flowering. During summer the transition to the reproductive stage occurs, with the development of large, showy flower clusters that often change color as they age. After pollination, the plant produces seeds that will disperse in late summer or fall, completing the reproductive cycle. Finally, the plant enters into a period of dormancy during winter, conserving energy until the cycle begins anew with the following spring's growth.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Winter - Early Spring
The most popular method of propagating the Oakleaf Hydrangea 'Applause' is via softwood cuttings. This is typically done in late spring to early summer when the plant's new growth is still tender and flexible. Cuttings should be about 4 to 6 inches long, taken from a healthy part of the plant, with the lower leaves removed and the remaining leaves reduced in size to minimize moisture loss. The cut end is often dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development, then planted in a moist potting mix. A clear plastic covering can help maintain humidity levels while the cutting establishes roots, a process that usually takes several weeks. It's crucial to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and to place the cuttings in bright, indirect light until rooting has occurred.
