Quercus rubra

Sunset

Zones 1-10, 14-21, 31-45

Full

Red 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 rubra

Fast growth to 60–75 ft. tall, 50 ft.wide,with spreading branches and rounded canopy. Bark becomes quite dark and fissured with age. Leaves 5– 8 in. long, 4–6 in.wide,with three to seven pairs of sharp-pointed lobes.New leaves and leafstalks are red or bright yellow in spring, dark green in summer, turning dark red, ruddy brown, or orange in fall.Acorns are 3/4–1 in. long, shaped like a toy top, enclosed by onethird in shallow cap; often profuse, creating litter on pavement.Needs fertile soil and regular moisture. High-branching habit and reasonably open shade make it a good tree for big lawns, parks, broad avenues.Deep roots make it good to garden under. Known host of the fungus that causes sudden oak death.