Northern Red Oak
Deciduous tree growing 20-30 m tall with a rounded crown. Features leaves with pointed lobes and bristle tips, turning russet-red in fall. Produces medium-sized acorns every 2-5 years. Adaptable to various soil conditions and full sun to partial shade. Fast-growing for an oak. Important for wildlife and valuable timber tree. Suitable for large landscapes, parks, and urban settings. Native to eastern North America.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: Yellow-green (catkins)
Bloom Time: Spring
Sun Requirements: Sun to Part-Shade
Moisture: Moist-Drained
Phenology: Leaves emerge pink-red mid-May. Male catkins appear with leaves. Acorns mature over two seasons. Russet-red fall color develops October, leaves often persisting into winter.
Wildlife Value: High value wildlife tree; acorns eaten by many mammals and birds; important nesting sites; hosts numerous moth and butterfly species
Habit Over Time: Develops a rounded, symmetrical crown with strong ascending branches. The canopy provides good shade but allows filtered light to reach the ground. While it produces abundant acorns that may sprout, it does not spread vegetatively. Branch structure becomes increasingly impressive with age, providing strong winter interest.
Height: Tall (60-75 feet)