Ruby Slippers is the compact oakleaf — 3–4 feet rather than the eight a full-size one takes — with panicles that open white and age through pink to a deep rose-red, on stems stout enough to hold the heavy heads upright instead of letting them flop.

Part shade to shade in soil that drains. Prune only right after it flowers: oakleafs bloom on old wood, so a late-winter cut takes next year's flowers with it. The bold lobed leaves finish wine-red.