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Description
Hydrangea Quercifolia Munchkin, also known as Oakleaf Hydrangea Munchkin, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Hydrangeaceae family. It is a compact cultivar that grows up to 3 feet tall and wide, making it an ideal choice for small gardens, borders, or container planting. This shrub is characterized by its oak-like foliage, which turns bronze-red in the fall, and cone-shaped flowers that bloom in early summer. The flowers start off white and gradually turn pink, creating a beautiful two-tone effect.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Hydrangeaceae |
| Genus | Hydrangea |
Appearance
The Hydrangea Quercifolia Munchkin has a dense, rounded form with upright branches that hold the large, oak-like leaves. The leaves are deeply lobed and have a dark green color that turns to bronze-red in the fall. The cone-shaped flowers emerge in early summer and can reach up to 6 inches long. The flowers start off white and turn pink as they age, creating a beautiful contrast against the foliage. The bark of this shrub is gray-brown and has a peeling texture.
Care Guide
To care for Hydrangea Quercifolia Munchkin, you need to provide it with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. This shrub prefers moist soil, so make sure to water it regularly, especially during hot and dry periods. Fertilize it once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. This shrub thrives in partial shade to full sun, but it prefers some shade during the hottest part of the day. It is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Hydrangea Quercifolia Munchkin is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust if the conditions are too humid. To prevent these diseases, make sure to provide good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. This shrub is also not favored by deer and rabbits.
Habitat
The Hydrangea Quercifolia Munchkin is native to the southeastern region of the United States, where it grows in woodlands, along streams, and in moist areas. It prefers a humid climate and can tolerate occasional flooding.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Hydrangea Quercifolia Munchkin?
A: You should water your shrub regularly, at least once a week, and more frequently during hot and dry periods.
Q: Can I grow Hydrangea Quercifolia Munchkin in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow this shrub in a container as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its root system and you provide it with adequate water and nutrients.
Q: When is the best time to prune Hydrangea Quercifolia Munchkin?
A: You should prune this shrub in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Prune out any dead or damaged branches and shape the shrub as desired.
Q: How tall and wide does Hydrangea Quercifolia Munchkin grow?
A: This shrub grows up to 3 feet tall and wide, making it an ideal choice for small gardens or border planting.
Related Plants
- Hydrangea Quercifolia
- Hydrangea Paniculata
- Hydrangea Arborescens
References
- “Hydrangea quercifolia ‘Munchkin’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j450.
- “Hydrangea Quercifolia Munchkin (Oakleaf Hydrangea).” Garden Design, www.gardendesign.com/plants/hydrangea-quercifolia-munchkin/.
- “Planting and Care for Oakleaf Hydrangeas.” HGTV, www.hgtv.com/outdoors/flowers-and-plants/trees-and-shrubs/planting-and-care-for-oakleaf-hydrangeas.
