The Oakleaf Hydrangea has sprouts that shoot up from underground roots and often grows in colonies. Young stems are covered in a felt-like light brown bark, and the larger stems have attractive cinnamon-tan-orange bark that shreds and peels in thin flakes. Leaves are yellowish-green on top and downy-white underneath. They have three, five or seven pointed lobes, are four to twelve inches long, and almost as wide. Plants in shade have larger leaves than those grown in sun.

Hydrangea quercifolia is an under story shrub, and is often planted in the shade of large Oaks, Hickories, Magnolias, etc. In the Conservatory Garden, it does not play this subordinate role, having its own stage to star upon. The bright, white flower clusters are vibrantly framed by the full green leaves that surround them, giving the small tree the aspect of a giant bridal bouquet. In fact, the Oakleaf Hydrangea is a favorite backdrop for hundreds of wedding shoots that held in the Conservatory Gardens each year. Brides and grooms from all over the globe come to Central Park each year to take their pictures posed amid the brilliant foliage.