Quercus rubra
Growing Information
• Plant Type: Tree
• Sunlight: Sun to part shade
• Soils: Average, moist, occasionally dry
• Bloom Time: Inconspicuous green/gold flowers in spring
• Size: 60-80 feet in height; 30-45 foot spread
Quercus rubra is a fast growing, deciduous tree with fantastic fall foliage. The pointed lobed leaves and reddish-brown to dark gray bark help distinguish it from white oaks. It’s tolerant of a variety of challenging conditions, including drought and salt spray. Red oak also supports a rich diversity of insects that rely on it for food and habitat. In general, oaks are a keystone species that support upland ecosystems.
Garden Companions
Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi), Pennsylvania Sedge (Carex pensylvanica), Golden Groundsel (Packera aurea)
Nature Benefits
• Pollinator powerhouse
• Attracts songbirds
• Attracts a variety of insects
• Supports small mammals
Natural Habitat
Forests, woodlands