Oakleaf Hydrangea - Hydrangea quercifolia polemonium purple The plant is a short-lived

The plant is a short-lived perennial

Suited best as a specimen tree to give a tropical vibe to a backyard

It even makes a nice little tropical bonsai specimen

The leaves are not usually bothered by disease

Cold hardiness: Zones 5-10

Oakleaf Hydrangea - Hydrangea quercifolia polemonium purple The plant is a short-livedThis North American native has large white sprays of delicate blossoms during spring to summer, as well as large fuzzy leaves that turn burgundy in the fall. In the winter, the bark looks appealing (no, really, it peels). It can withstand full sun and has been planted in complete sand in my yard, with summer temps of over 100, and it did not wilt. It has few diseases and pests, but deer do like the leaves. Spread: 6' x 6', slowly spreading, clumping