White Oak
Quercus alba · Deciduous, Broadleaf, Hardwood
Plant Family
Fagaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Forest Tree
Variety / Cultivar
None specified/Wild type
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 9.
About This Tree
A massive, long-lived tree with a broad, rounded crown and wide-spreading horizontal branches. In an open setting, it becomes very wide. It features a slow to moderate growth rate and exceptional longevity, often living several centuries.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate arrangement; 4 to 9 inches long with 7 to 9 deep, rounded lobes. The sinuses (notches) can be shallow or deep. Leaves are bright green above and whitish/glaucous underneath, turning deep red or violet-purple in the fall.
Bark Characteristics
Light gray to white in color; distinctive scaly or 'shingled' texture with narrow, vertical blocks or plates. On very old specimens like the one pictured, the bark can be thick, deeply furrowed, and display a gnarled, twisted appearance on the trunk.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eastern and Central North America
Growing Season
Leafs and flowers in spring (April-May); bears acorns in late summer/autumn; enters dormancy in late fall after vibrant foliage changes.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade when young. Needs well-drained, acidic to neutral soil. Moderately drought-tolerant once established but performs best with consistent moisture.
Mature Size
Height of 50 to 80 feet, with a spread often equal to or greater than its height. Trunk diameter can exceed 4 feet in ancient specimens.
Special Characteristics
Highly valued for timber (white oak wood is waterproof due to tyloses); excellent fall color; deep taproot makes it difficult to transplant but very wind-resistant. It is the state tree of several U.S. states.
Wildlife & Ecology
Extremely high ecological value; produces 'sweet' acorns (low in tannins) that are a primary food source for deer, turkeys, squirrels, and blue jays. It serves as a host plant for hundreds of species of Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths).