Gatsby Star Hydrangea

Hydrangea quercifolia 'Gatsby Star'

Family: Hydrangea

Type: Shrub

Hydrangea quercifolia ‘Gatsby Star’ is a unique and elegant variety of oakleaf hydrangea, known for its distinctive star-shaped flowers. These large, white blooms are particularly eye-catching and add a touch of sophistication to any garden.

This variety stands out with its richly textured oak-like leaves that provide year-round interest. In the fall, the foliage turns a stunning shade of red or bronze, enhancing its visual appeal.

‘Gatsby Star’ thrives in partial shade to full sun and is hardy in zones 5-9. It’s adaptable to a range of soil conditions, preferring well-draining, moist soil.

Needs & Preferences

Hardiness Zone: 5a-9b

Moisture Preference: Moist

Sun Needs: Full sun to partial shade

Growth

Growth Rate: Medium

Average Height (feet): 6

Average Spread (feet): 6

Average Life Span (years): 20

Form: Round

Ornamental

Flower Color: White

Bloom Season: From late spring to early summer

Foliage Color: Green

Foliage Shape: Oval

Incorporating ‘Gatsby Star’ into your landscape design provides a luxurious and refined touch. Its unique flowers and foliage make it a standout plant in any garden setting.

This hydrangea is perfect for woodland gardens, as a focal point in mixed borders, or as a specimen plant. Its large, showy blooms and attractive foliage complement various garden styles.

Despite its impressive appearance, ‘Gatsby Star’ is relatively low maintenance. It’s a great choice for gardeners seeking a plant that combines beauty with ease of care.

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Suitable Garden Styles

Woodland Garden

In a woodland garden, 'Gatsby Star' adds a natural and rustic charm. Its oak-like leaves blend seamlessly with the woodland aesthetic.

Formal Garden

For formal gardens, this hydrangea brings elegance and a sense of grandeur. Its symmetrical bloom pattern is perfect for creating a visually striking and balanced landscape.

Cottage Garden

In a cottage garden, 'Gatsby Star' contributes to the enchanting, informal style. Its lush blooms and rich foliage fit beautifully within the abundant planting of these gardens.

‘Gatsby Star’ Landscaping Ideas

Plant it as a statement piece in a garden bed or border. Its striking blooms and foliage draw the eye and create a focal point.

Use it in groups to create a dramatic effect in larger gardens. Grouping several ‘Gatsby Star’ hydrangeas together can create a stunning visual impact.

Combine it with other shade-loving plants in a mixed border. Its unique flowers and foliage provide a beautiful contrast and complement a variety of plants.

Seasonal Interest

Spring

In spring, 'Gatsby Star' begins to show new growth, with its oak-like leaves unfurling to signal the start of the growing season.

Summer

During summer, it blooms with its characteristic star-shaped flowers, creating a spectacular display in the garden.

Fall

In the fall, the foliage of 'Gatsby Star' turns a brilliant red or bronze, adding a warm and vibrant color to the autumn landscape.

Winter

In winter, 'Gatsby Star' retains its structural form, with the foliage often persisting and providing winter interest in the garden.

Companion Plants

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Junior Walker Catmint

Nepeta faassenii 'Novanepjun'

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Little Spire Russian Sage

Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Little Spire'

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Dallas Blues Switchgrass

Panicum virgatum 'Dallas Blues'

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Planting Tips

Where to Plant

Hydrangea quercifolia ‘Gatsby Star’ is best planted in an area with partial shade to full sun. It’s ideal for woodland gardens, mixed borders, or as a standalone feature, thriving in spots that get several hours of sunlight.

Light

This hydrangea variety enjoys partial shade to full sun. Adequate sunlight is crucial for optimal blooming, but in hotter climates, some afternoon shade is beneficial.

Soil

'Gatsby Star' prefers well-draining, moist soil rich in organic matter. It thrives in soil that is slightly acidic to neutral.

Spacing

Space 'Gatsby Star' Hydrangeas about 4 to 6 feet apart. This spacing allows for proper growth and air circulation, which is essential for the health of the plant.

When to Plant

The optimal time to plant is in the spring or early fall. Planting during these cooler temperatures helps the hydrangea establish without the stress of extreme heat or cold.

How to Plant

Dig a hole as deep and twice as wide as the root ball. Place the hydrangea in the hole, fill with soil, and water thoroughly. Ensure the plant is level with the surrounding ground.

Plant Care Tips

Watering

Regular watering is important, especially during dry spells. ‘Gatsby Star’ prefers consistently moist soil but does not like to be waterlogged.

Fertilizing

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering.

Pruning

Prune ‘Gatsby Star’ in late winter or early spring. Since it blooms on new wood, pruning encourages more robust blooms and maintains plant shape.

By Season

 

Spring Care

In spring, apply mulch to retain moisture and control weeds. Begin regular watering and fertilizing as new growth appears.

Summer Care

Maintain consistent moisture during summer. Mulching helps retain soil moisture and keeps roots cool.

Fall Care

Reduce watering as the plant prepares for dormancy. Clean up any fallen leaves to keep the area tidy.

Winter Care

'Gatsby Star' Hydrangea is dormant in winter. Ensure it's well-mulched to protect the roots from freezing temperatures.

Plant Alternatives

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Annabelle Hydrangea

Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle'

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Bobo Hydrangea

Hydrangea paniculata 'Bobo'

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Vanilla Strawberry Hydrangea

Hydrangea paniculata 'Vanilla Strawberry'

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FAQ

How Big Does Hydrangea quercifolia 'Gatsby Star' Get?

‘Gatsby Star’ Hydrangea grows to about 6-8 feet tall and wide, forming a large, impressive shrub.

Are 'Gatsby Star' Hydrangeas Deer Resistant?

While no plant is completely deer-proof, ‘Gatsby Star’ Hydrangeas are not a preferred food source for deer and have some resistance.

Can 'Gatsby Star' Hydrangea Grow in Full Shade?

While it can tolerate partial shade, ‘Gatsby Star’ Hydrangea performs best with at least several hours of sun. Full shade may reduce the number and vibrancy of blooms.

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