Oak-leaved Hydrangea 'Alice'

'Alice' is a substantial and particularly vigorous cultivar of the Oak-leaved Hydrangea, offering exceptional interest through three seasons. This deciduous shrub is named for its deeply lobed, large green leaves that closely resemble those of a red oak. In summer, it produces enormous, conical panicles of white flowers that can reach up to 30cm in length; as they age, these flowers gradually fade to a soft, dusty pink. As autumn approaches, the foliage turns brilliant shades of bronze, burgundy, and purple, providing some of the best autumn colour in the garden. Even in winter, the peeling, cinnamon-coloured bark on older stems adds texture. 'Alice' is fully hardy (H5) but performs best in a sheltered spot with moist, well-drained soil. Unlike the more common mophead hydrangeas, it is more tolerant of sun and drought once established, though it thrives in partial shade. It requires minimal pruning, which should be done in late winter if necessary.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil.

Hardiness: H5 — down to −15°C.

Flowering: Jul, Aug, Sep.