Compact Hydrangeas for Small Gardens

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Compact oakleaf hydrangeas are a great not only for small gardens but even in large gardens where smaller selections would fit the space.

The U. S. Agricultural Research Service scientists at the U.S. National Arboretum Floral and Nursery Plants Research Unit are releasing two new ones called Ruby Slippers and Munchkin.

Ruby Slippers and Munchkin are the first compact Hydrangea quercifolia. (Related to the native ones of the southeastern United States.)

We call them oakleaf hydrangea because the leaves resemble oak trees. I love them and their fall color can't be beat. BUT, the ones available until now are too huge to contemplate adding to our garden. These new ones I would plant.

Ruby Slippers and Munchkin grow to 3 or 4 feet tall, and have large flower heads that stay upright. Ruby Slippers' flowers open white and turn pale pink, deepening to rose.

Munchkin
opens white and turns medium pink.


Grow in full sun or light shade; cold hardy in zones 5 to 8.

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