Alice Vs. Snow Queen Oakleaf Hydrangeas

Oakleaf Hydrangeas

• Oakleaf hydrangeas (Hydrangea quercifolia) are slow-growing, deliberate hydrangeas that grow to 4 to 8 feet in height and spread over time. They bear white to pinkish-purple blooms in early summer and don't require heavy pruning or maintenance.

Alice Hydrangea

• Alice hydrangea is hardy to U.S. Department of Agriculture growing zones 5 through 9, and maintains its greenery through spring, summer and fall. This shrub grows up to 8 feet in height and spread and bears its blooms in a slightly elongated circular formation. Blooms open in creamy white and fade to soft pink over time.

Snow Queen Hydrangea

• Snow Queen hydrangea is a showier shrub, but is also hardy to USDA zones 5 through 9. It reaches smaller growth at a height and spread of 5 to 6 feet. This shrub maintains foliage from spring to fall, then puts on a bright red show as it loses its leaves. It grows larger, longer bouquet formations than Alice. Blooms open in bright, stark white and fade to a darker pink than Alice's blooms.

Planting Site and Soil

• All hydrangeas require specific seasons, sites, soils and care for success. Plant Alice and Snow Queen hydrangeas in spring, when the frost lifts and the ground dries. Put them in sites with indirect, partial or filtered sun to keep them moist and healthy. Amend the natural soil with organic compost to give these moisture-loving plants moist, deep and nutritious foundations. Water hydrangeas with 2 inches of water every week and use organic mulch to maintain soil moisture and warmth.