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Pin Oak | Plant Profile

Pin Oak (Quercus palustris) are medium to large deciduous trees that are native to the American northeast. They typically grow into an irregular pyramidal shape with horizontal branches at the base the gradually begin to point upwards as they move up the tree. Young leaves are yellow in spring, become green in summer, and move to red in the fall.The leaves have distinct, sharply pointed lobes. Acorns are the seeds of the Pin Oak, but they may not appear until the tree is over 20 years old.

Pin Oak prefers average fertility, medium to wet, acidic soils in full sun. These trees are native to lowlands and floodplains in the wild and can tolerate poorly drained ground.

Pin Oak are extremely common landscape and wild trees in Pennsylvania. They can be found along streams, ponds, lakes, and flood plains. Pin Oak are commonly planted in areas with natural springs or low spots to absorb excess ground water. They can be used as borders or natural fences between large yards or parks. Pin Oak are often used as street trees.

Description

Pin Oak Characteristics

Pin Oak are widely planted medium to large deciduous trees. They are characterized by gray fissured bark and lobed foliage. The leaves have up to 5 lobes that are sharply pointed. These ornamental trees are most showy in the fall when the leaves turn red. The acorns are very attractive to wildlife such as squirrels.

Pin Oak are hardy trees that are less vulnerable to disease than other varieties of oak tree. Chlorosis is common in basic soils and can be deadly. Insect visitors include but are not limited to nut weevils, caterpillars, and borers.

USDA Climate Zone
Zones 4 - 8
Height
50.00 - 70.00
Spread
40.00 - 60.00'
Bloom Time
April
Water
Medium - Wet
Sun
Full Sun
Maintenance
Medium
Deer Resistant?
No