Snow Queen Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia) is an oakleaf hydrangea with fragrant, white flowers and dark green oak leaf foliage. It is a multi stemmed deciduous shrub that produces show-stopping 8-inch long, conical flower clusters from early summer on. Oakleaf hydrangeas are ideal for foundation plantings and shrub borders and their clippings are elegant interior design accents.

This flowering shrub should be planted in part shade for best results but this versatile beauty can tolerate full sun if needed. It typically grows 4-6 feet tall when planted in organically rich soil. This quercifolia hydrangea blooms on old wood so the buds will form for the next year at the end of bloom season.

Snow Queen Hydrangea's deeply lobed dark green leaves have an upright broad leaf growth habit. The oak leaf shaped foliage produces outstanding fall color and the flowers take on purplish-pink hues when dried. Cut flowers are beautiful in vases and the exfoliating bark is attractive if you are looking to add texture and life to your home decor.

This exceptional fragrant shrub is native to the southeastern United States, where it is found growing along stream banks. It is equally stunning in a mixed border or woodland setting. I have found that Snow Queen Hydrangea is happiest when planted right at the woods edge just under the canopy of larger trees. If you want more information about planting the right hydrangea for your landscape, read our blog Choosing Hydrangeas for your Garden.