Willow Oak
Quercus phellos · Deciduous broadleaf hardwood
Plant Family
Fagaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Street Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Species type (no specific named cultivar)
Hardiness Zones
Thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 5 through 9.
About This Tree
Medium to large tree with an upright, rounded to pyramidal crown that becomes more spreading and open with age. Fast-growing when young, featuring fine-textured foliage reminiscent of a willow.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate leaves, narrowly lanceolate to linear in shape, 2 to 5 inches long, with smooth margins and a pointed tip. Dark green above and paler beneath, turning yellow in fall.
Bark Characteristics
Grayish-brown bark that remains relatively smooth on young trees, gradually developing tight, narrow ridges and shallow furrows as it matures.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to the southeastern and south-central United States, commonly planted in urban landscapes across the eastern US.
Growing Season
Leafs out in spring, maintains dense green foliage through summer, turns yellow-brown in autumn before dropping leaves for winter dormancy.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Requires full sun for optimal growth. Prefers moist, well-drained soils but exhibits good tolerance for temporary flooding as well as moderate drought once established.
Mature Size
Reaches a mature height of 40 to 60 feet with an equal or slightly narrower spread, featuring a moderate to fast growth rate.
Special Characteristics
Highly tolerant of urban pollution, compacted soils, and poor drainage, making it a popular street tree with good resistance to various pests.
Wildlife & Ecology
Produces small acorns that are readily consumed by squirrels, turkeys, deer, and various woodpeckers and jays, providing important seasonal food and nesting habitat.