Quercus palustris

Pin Oak
Fagaceae
Deciduous, Trees

QUERCUS

Appearance and hardiness of Oaks vary widely, but all produce acorns preceded by inconspicuous flowers. Single nuts are more or less enclosed in a cuplike cap covered with many closely set scales. In some species, the acorns are edible,with a sweet flavor. Some oaks are widely planted over large areas, while others have a limited range

Quercus palustris

Moderate to fairly rapid growth to 50–80 ft. tall, 30–40 ft.wide. Brownish gray bark with shallow ridges and furrows. Pyramidal in youth,with lower branches sweeping downward. If you remove those branches to gain walking space, the limbs above will simply bend into the same position—so wait to remove lower limbs until tree ismature and has formed an open, rounded top. Glossy dark green leaves are 3–6 in. long, deeply cut into bristle-pointed lobes; in brisk fall weather, leaves turn yellow, red, and finally russet brown.Much of the dead foliage hangs on in winter. Nearly round acorns to 3/4 in. across, enclosed by about a third in saucer-shaped, fuzzy cap. Less tolerant of dry conditions than most oaks.Develops chlorosis in alkaline soils.Unlike most native Western oaks, it is a fine tree for growing in lawns.