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Quercus rubra

"Red Oak"

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Size

Large

Size after

7m x 4m

Tree Information

Specialities

Tolerances

Wet Soil: Medium

Dry Soil: Medium

Lime: Low

Quercus rubra, commonly known as the Red Oak, is a majestic deciduous tree native to North America, particularly thriving in the eastern and central regions. The Red Oak is known for its towering height, being one of the largest oaks that can be grown in the UK. Many specimens have reached heights of 30m tall. Its unpredictable but grand crown creates an impressive natural silhouette in any landscape.

One of the distinctive features of Quercus rubra is its large, oval, obovate lobed leaves that are matt green above and blue-green beneath. In autumn, these turn red and finally brown before falling. Though called the Red Oak, its autumnal display can be variable, with some trees turning more yellow than red before finally brown.

As with all the American Red and White oaks, Quercus rubra does not do well in alkaline soil and would be short-lived if planted there.

For a more uniform habit, it may be best to use Quercus palustris.

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Size

Large

12m high x 8m wide after 25 years

Environment

Its irregular crown makes it a favoured choice in woodland planting, but its impressive tolerance to pollution also renders it a fantastic candidate for urban environments, such as streets and parks.

Canopy

Large, wide and broad-headed canopy, variable and irregular crown.

Foliage

Large leaves that are twice the size of our native oaks, lobed, matt-green above and blue-green beneath. Autumn colour is variable from red to brown, or ruby-red or yellow to brown before falling.

Flowers

Produces yellow catkins in late spring to early summer.

Fruit

Broad, oval shaped acorn.

Resilience

Prefers neutral to acidic conditions and is tolerant of pollution, wind, salt and frost.

Wildlife

Oaks serve as excellent habitats for insects, which become a crucial food source for birds. Woodland creatures, especially squirrels are known to forage on acorns for sustenance.

Available As:

Semi-Mature, Super Semi-Mature