No, it's not a full-size pink oakleaf hydrangea, but getting close. This is the new dwaf Hydrangea quercifolia 'Ruby Slippers' developed by the US National Arboretum's shrub breeding program in McMinnville, TN.
This oakleaf reaches 3.5 feet tall and about five feet wide at seven years, with nine-inch long flower clusters that open white and fade to pale pink and then deep rose, as shown above. The foliage is similar to a regular oakleaf, dark green in summer and burgundy in fall.
'Ruby Slippers' has been released to growers; it's a hybrid of 'Snow Queen' and 'Pee Wee.'
Also from the arboretum is the new Hydrangea quercifolia 'Munchkin,' which is even smaller. It has a compact form and dense habit, reaching three feet tall and 4.5 feet wide in nine years. Its flowers are about 6.5 inches long, opening white and eventually turning a medium pink. It was developed from 'Sikes Dwarf.' Both of these new hydrangeas would be great specimen plants in small gardens, and it sounds like they're even small enough for townhouse patio gardens. Could be great additions to the summer garden.
Both prefer full sun or light shade and are hardy to zone 5. The plants are expected to be available in retail nurseries within the next year or two.
(photos: Dr. Sandra Reed, USNA)
WoW! That's a beauty! Can't wait to see the real thing. Thanks for sharing this.
Posted by: Pam | May 07, 2010 at 09:21 PM