Chestnut Oak
Quercus montana · Deciduous, Broadleaf, Hardwood
Plant Family
Fagaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Forest Tree, Timber Tree
Variety / Cultivar
None (Straight Species)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 4-8
About This Tree
A medium to large tree often found on dry, rocky sites. It features a broad, irregular crown and thick, deeply furrowed bark that becomes very prominent at maturity. It is known for its slow to moderate growth rate and exceptional durability in poor soils.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate, 4-8 inches long; obovate or oblong-lanceolate shape with rounded, wavy-toothed margins (resembling chestnut leaves). Dark yellowish-green above and paler, slightly fuzzy underneath. Turns yellow-orange to dull brown in autumn.
Bark Characteristics
Very distinctive; dark gray-brown to nearly black. On mature trees, it is exceptionally thick and deeply divided into broad, rugged, V-shaped ridges that are continuous and scaly.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eastern United States, specifically the Appalachian Mountain region and rocky ridges.
Growing Season
Buds break in mid-spring; flowers in May or June; acorns mature in a single season by autumn; dormancy begins in late fall.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun preferred; high drought tolerance once established. Prefers well-drained, acidic soils and can survive in poor, rocky conditions where other oaks struggle.
Mature Size
Mature height of 50-70 feet with a spread of 50-60 feet. Growth rate is slow to moderate. Can live for over 300 years.
Special Characteristics
Excellent drought tolerance; thick bark provides some fire resistance; historically used as a source of tannin for the leather industry; valuable heavy timber for fencing and railroad ties.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides critical habitat and food for wildlife; large, sweet-fleshed acorns are a primary food source for deer, turkeys, squirrels, and bears. Its rugged bark structure provides nesting and foraging sites for songbirds and insects.