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Ruby Slippers Oakleaf Hydrangea

Hydrangea quercifolia 'Ruby Slippers'

Regular price $3732
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Plant Size

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

  • Sunlight: This hydrangea thrives in full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 6 hours of sunlight for the best deep red fall color. In hotter climates, provide afternoon shade to prevent the large leaves from wilting or scorching during the peak heat of the day.
  • Soil: Plant in rich, well drained soil that stays consistently moist but never soggy. If you have heavy clay, mix in organic compost to improve drainage, or plant in a slight mound to keep the roots from sitting in stagnant water.

Watering Requirements

During the first year, water your Ruby Slippers twice a week to ensure the root system establishes deeply. Once mature, these shrubs are surprisingly drought tolerant, but inconsistent watering during dry spells will lead to smaller flower panicles and drooping foliage. Think of consistent moisture as the fuel that keeps those massive blooms looking crisp and upright all summer.

Pruning Tips

Because Ruby Slippers blooms on "old wood," you should only prune immediately after the flowers fade in late summer. Avoid pruning in late winter or spring, as you will accidentally cut off the buds already set for the upcoming season. Use a "selective thinning" approach by removing dead or crossing branches to improve air circulation and maintain its compact, rounded shape.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring just as new growth begins to emerge. Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer because this encourages tender new growth that can be easily killed by the first frost. A single application of an all purpose garden food usually provides all the nutrients needed for vibrant bloom production and sturdy stems.

Delivery and Shipping

Preorder Shipping Schedule

We ship your plants when it's safe to transport them to your zone. Dates are estimated and subject to weather delays.

Zone 3-4 Week of March 30th
Zone 5 Week of March 16th
Zone 6 Week of March 2nd
Zone 7 Week of February 23rd
Zone 8-12 Week of February 15th


Shipping Rates

Ships in 3-4 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50 $9.99
$50 - $99.99 $14.99
$100 - $149.99 $16.99
$150 - $198.99 $24.99
$199+ FREE

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

  • Botanical Name
    Hydrangea quercifolia 'Ruby Slippers'
  • Growing Zones
    5-9
  • Height
    3-4 ft
  • Width
    3-5 ft
  • Sunlight
    • Full sun
    • Partial shade
  • Growth Rate
    Moderate
  • Flower Color
    • Red
    • Pink
    • White
  • Leaf Color
    • Green
    • Red
    • Orange
  • Fall Color
    Mahogony Red
  • Pollinator Friendly
    Yes
  • Pollinator Required
    No
  • Bloom Period
    Early Summer, Late Summer
  • Does Not Ship To
    AK, HI, ID, MT

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