Oakleaf Hydrangea - Hydrangea quercifolia polemonium purple Suited best as a specimen

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

Pink Silk tree

which is one of the reasons why they are a popular houseplant

The plant is a short-lived perennial

Cold hardiness: Zones 5-10

Oakleaf Hydrangea - Hydrangea quercifolia polemonium purple Suited best as a specimenThis 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