Willow Oak
Quercus phellos · Deciduous, Broadleaf, Hardwood
Plant Family
Fagaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Street Tree, Forest Tree
Variety / Cultivar
No specific cultivar identifiable; wild type sapling
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 5 through 9; well-adapted to heat and humidity.
About This Tree
A medium to large-sized red oak characterized by a dense, symmetrical, rounded or oblong crown at maturity. It is known for its relatively fast growth rate for an oak and its distinctive willow-like foliage. It produces small acorns with thin caps.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate, linear or lanceolate (shaped like willow leaves), 2 to 5 inches long, margins are entire (smooth) with a single bristle at the tip; light to bright green in summer, turning yellow-brown or red-orange in fall.
Bark Characteristics
Smooth and gray-tan on young trees and saplings; aging to dark gray or black with irregular, rough ridges and deep furrows on older specimens.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to the Eastern and Central United States (mostly Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plains and Mississippi River Valley)
Growing Season
Leafs out in spring (March-April); flowers with catkins in spring; acorns mature in fall; enters dormancy after shedding leaves in late autumn; best planted in fall or early spring
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun is preferred; moderate water needs; adaptable to various moisture levels including wet sites and lowland areas; moderate drought tolerance once established.
Mature Size
Mature height of 40 to 60 feet (can reach 80+ feet in optimal conditions), with a spread of 30 to 50 feet. Typically grows 1-2 feet per year.
Special Characteristics
Highly tolerant of urban pollution and compacted soil, making it a popular street tree; excellent ornamental fall color; wood is used for pulp and general construction.
Wildlife & Ecology
Ecologically significant as a food source; small acorns are eaten by squirrels, wild turkeys, deer, and various birds; provides nesting habitat for birds and several butterfly larvae (hosting various hairstreaks and duskywings).