Can Oak Leaf Hydrangeas Grow in Full Sun?

Light Requirements

• An oakleaf hydrangea shrub grows in the full gamut of garden light exposures from full sun to full shade. The habit, flowering and fall leaf color performance are directly related to light conditions. Usually, an oakleaf hydrangea is planted where it receives four to six hours of shade daily -- a partial sun to partial shade situation. Up to six hours of direct sun sustains the foliage, promotes a compact and bushy habit and encourages timely flowering. Sun rays in autumn accentuate the red foliage coloration.

Effects of Full Sun

• If the soil is infertile or too dry, an oakleaf hydrangea planted in a full sun exposure often shows signs of stress. Stunted growth, leaf scorch or brown leaf edges result when too much hot sunlight basks the plant and insufficient soil moisture exists. However, full sun creates the bushiest shrubs, and leads to a larger number of flower clusters and more intense fall color compared to those grown in shadier garden locales.

Soil Moisture

• If the garden soil is sandy and most often dry, do not plant the oakleaf hydrangea in full sun. The fast-draining sandy soil will not provide enough moisture to keep the plant looking and growing its best. Conversely, if the garden soil is a rich loam or clay with lots of organic matter, the soil moisture levels likely are much higher. An evenly moist soil helps offset any heating or drying effects from a full sun exposure. Never plant oakleaf hydrangeas in a soggy or flooding soil -- it leads to root rot and plant death.

Regional Considerations

• Regions of the U.S. that endure long, hot summers or where summers usually lack rain, it's better to plant the oakleaf hydrangea in a partial shade garden bed. Cooler summer climate areas, such as those in the Pacific Northwest or northeastern quarter of the country, do not have as intense sun rays compared to more southerly latitudes. Oakleaf hydrangeas in the northern U.S. can handle full sun much better.