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Northern Red Oak - Quercus rubra
Northern Red Oak - Quercus rubra
Picture of Northern Red Oak
Picture of Northern Red Oak
Picture of Northern Red Oak
Picture of Northern Red Oak
Picture of Northern Red Oak
Picture of Northern Red Oak
Picture of Northern Red Oak

Northern Red Oak

Quercus rubra
Zones: 3 - 8

Zone Map



The Northern Red Oak Grows in zones 3 - 8
  • Grows more than two feet per year for 10 years
  • Provides great fall color, with leaves turning russet-red to bright red
  • Is easier than most to transplant
  • Features alternating leaves that are 4–8" long and have 7–11 waxy, spine-tipped lobes
  • Produces pale yellow-green catkins that appear at about the same time new foliage is expanding, typically April–May
  • Yields acorns that are round and ¾–1" long with a flat, thick, saucer-like cap
  • Offers great shade due to a dense crown
  • Tolerates pollution and compacted soil
  • Grows in a rounded shape
Pricing Information

Tree Details

Shape

Rounded

Growth Speed

Fast

Scientific Name

Quercus rubra

Mature Height

60' - 75'

Mature Spread

50' - 75'

Highlights

The northern red oak has been called “one of the handsomest, cleanest, and stateliest trees in North America” by naturalist Joseph S. Illick, and it is widely considered a national treasure. It is especially valued for its adaptability and usefulness, including its hardiness in urban settings. This medium to large tree is also known for its brilliant fall color, great value to wildlife, and status as the state tree of New Jersey.

Whether you’re selecting a tree to plant in your front yard or out on the farm, it’s a fast-growing species worth keeping in mind.

Sun Preference

Full Sun

Soil Preference

Acidic, Clay, Drought, Loamy, Moist, Sandy, Well Drained

Wildlife Value

Acorns from this tree are at the top of the food preference list for blue jays, wild turkeys, squirrels, small rodents, whitetail deer, raccoons and black bears. Deer also browse the buds and twigs in wintertime.

History/Lore

The northern red oak has been a favorite of both lumbermen and landscapers since colonial times. The tree has also found favor when transplanted in Europe. It is believed that Bishop Compton's garden, near Fulham in England, received the first red oak transplant abroad in the late 17th century. In 1924, there were over 450 acres of red oak plantations in Baden, Germany.

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