Hydrangea quercifolia 'Munchkin' (dwarf oakleaf hydrangea)

University of Maryland Extension Recommended Native Shrub

'Munchkin' is a dwarf, compact oakleaf hydrangea with dark green foliage that turns mahogany red in Fall. It grows 3–4' tall and wide. Oakleaf hydrangea is easily grown in rich, moist but well-drained soils in filtered sun to part shade. The exfoliating mature branches provide interesting color and texture in Winter. Panicles of white flowers are held upright above the foliage and gradually turn pink as they age. Use this shrub as a specimen or accent for foundations and other locations near homes or patios. Can also be grouped or massed in shrub borders or in open woodland areas. 

Oakleaf hydrangea is native to southeastern U.S. Does not occur naturally in Maryland, but with climate change, species native to our South have the potential to fare better in mid-Atlantic ecosystems of the future, according to Maryland's Extension Service. Found in woodland or woods-edge habitat. It often grows in colonies in the wild, spreading through shoots from underground stolons. Supports bumblebees and other pollinators, and some songbirds eat the seeds.