Oakleaf hydrangea vs Panicle hydrangea 'Limelight'
Oakleaf hydrangea is a native of the southeastern United States, grown as much for its big lobed leaves, which turn deep red in autumn, and its peeling winter bark as for its flowers, and it is happy in part shade. Panicle hydrangea wants sun and is grown for the size and long season of its flowers.
 Oakleaf hydrangeaHydrangea quercifolia |  Panicle hydrangea 'Limelight'Hydrangea paniculata 'Limelight' | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 6½ ft tall, 8 ft wide | 7 ft tall, 7 ft wide |
| Plant | 6 ft apart | 6 ft apart |
| Zones | 5 to 9 | 3 to 8 |
| Light | Full sun to part shade | Full sun to part sun |
| Soil | Evenly moist, rich fertility | Evenly moist, average fertility |
| Flowers | Mid June to early August; white, pink | Mid July to early October; green, white, pink |
| Leaves | Bold, deciduous | Medium, deciduous |
| Job in a bed | Anchor | Anchor |
| Pets | Toxic (mild) | Toxic (mild) |
| Deer | Not listed as resistant | Not listed as resistant |
| Native | Yes | No |
| Spread | Moderate risk | Low risk |
Rows where they differ are marked. Flowering times are for zone 5.
Which to choose
- Choose oakleaf hydrangea for more shade, warmer gardens (to zone 9), dry summers, a native garden and more wildlife.
- Choose panicle hydrangea 'Limelight' for colder gardens (to zone 3) and a longer show (12 weeks of flower against 9).
Can they grow together?
Yes: they grow in the same conditions. Beside oakleaf hydrangea, panicle hydrangea 'Limelight' is in flower together for four weeks, from mid July; medium leaves against its bold ones; happy in the same moist soil. They share full sun and part sun and zones 5 to 8.
Read more: all about oakleaf hydrangea, and all about panicle hydrangea 'Limelight', each with a bed the planner designed around it.