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Red Oak | Plant Profile

Red Oak (Quercus rubra) are medium to large deciduous ornamental trees. These fast growing trees have a rounded to pyramidal irregular shape. The densely packed, dark green leaves are lobed, with up to 11 points. The leaves can become red or brown in the fall. Acorns are the seeds of these ornamental trees.

Red Oak prefers fertile, acidic, dry to medium moisture soils in full sun. The soils should have good drainage. Once established, these trees can be tolerant of drought and air pollution.

Red Oak are popular in Pennsylvania both in landscaping and in the wild. They can be a focal point in a yard or park, be used as a street tree, or shade tree. They can often be found on hillsides or sharp slopes. Red Oak can be grouped in naturalized areas to create natural fences around large yards or parks.

Description

Red Oak Characteristics

Red Oak are common ornamental trees in Pennsylvania. They can be found in the wild or in highly landscapes yards. They are identifiable by the sharply multi-pointed leaves, acorns, and red fall color. Acorns may not become abundant until the trees are over 40 years old.

Red Oak are fast growing and can be long lived. They can be susceptible to a few diseases that can be serious, such as oak wilt and chlorosis. Unfortunately, oak wilt has no cure, but chlorosis occurs in soils that are too basic and require some acidity.

  • USDA Climate Zone
    Zones 4 - 8
  • Height
    50.00 - 75.00
  • Spread
    50.00 - 75.00'
  • Bloom Time
    May
  • Water
    Dry - Medium
  • Sun
    Full Sun
  • Maintenance
    Low
  • Deer Resistant?
    No