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Oak; Bur,Red, and Swamp
White
Quercus macrocarpa, rubra, and bicolo |
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These three oak species are all native to eastern North America.
They are slow-growing, but very long-lived, and provide dense shade
and beautiful colors when the foliage turns in fall. All grow straight
trunks with heavy, upright limbs, and classically oak-shaped leaves
with indented margins. The details of bark texture and leaf shape
vary among the species. |
Height: 45’
Crown Spread: 30’
Growth Rate: slow to moderate (Red Oak is the fastest)
Flowers: inconspicuous Foliage: glossy green, turns
orange, rust or red in fall
Fruit: acorns
Soil: tolerate poor soils, but chlorosis may be a
problem in alkaline soils
Water: varies with species, see “Comments”
Sun: full
Problem: canker, susceptible to oak wilt (avoid pruning
April to July), not great for dry, windy locations
Comments: Swamp White Oak tolerates wet, heavy soils,
also grows in well-drained soils. Red needs fertile soil and plenty
of moisture. Bur is more tolerant of alkaline soils and drought than
Swamp White Oak.
Street Tree: suitable, but requires care to establish |
