This variety grows best in shade. The large, deeply lobed leaves resemble those of the Oak, thus the common name. In late summer, conical heads of large, white, sterile florets are produced. H. serratifolia is a tender, climbing hydrangea that grows best against a wall in sun or shade. It has small, leathery leaves and columnar panicles, up to 6 inches long, of creamy colored flowers.
Hydrangeas are rather easy plants to grow.
Most hydrangeas prefer quite a bit of shade, although H. macrophylla and H. serrata will tolerate much more sun, but will still flourish in mottled sun for part of the day. They may also need protection from spring frosts, which can kill the buds. In some species, the flowers change color according to the amount of aluminum and level of acidity in the soil. H. macrophylla will produce blue flowers in acidic soil where more aluminum is present. The lower the pH, the bluer the flowers.