If you moved to Arizona from the colder climates you might want to try to plant a Hydrangea to feel like home. The key to planting non-desert plants is shade. The Oakleaf Hydrangeas will grow best in Arizona’s Hot Desert. This picture is called the “Snow Queen”. It will grow in sun or shade, but the blooms last longer if they get a little afternoon shade in hot climates. It does need sun and shade. In Arizona, it should be planted in a place that gets a little morning sun and protected from the heat if possible. Make sure it gets plenty of water but do not let it sit in water. It must have well drained soil. The leaves on the Oakleaf hydrangeas will “color up” best in the fall if they receive some sun. Do not plant it under a tree because the tree will take all of the nutrients and moisture from the Hydrangea. Other forms of Hydrangeas will not do as well as the Oakleaf in the hot and dry Arizona desert. This plant will do great in a large pot that can be moved with the season.
Sun Exposure: Sun to Partial Shade – In the hot Arizona desert it should be planted in more shade.
Danger: Parts of plant are poisonous if ingested
Bloom Color: White/Near White
Bloom Time: Mid Summer, Late Summer/Early Fall
Foliage: Grown for foliage, Deciduous, Bronze-Green
Other details: Average Water Needs; Water regularly; do not overwater
Seed Collecting: Allow seedheads to dry on plants; remove and collect seeds