English Oak
Quercus robur · Deciduous, Broadleaf, Hardwood
Plant Family
Fagaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Forest Tree, Ornamental
Variety / Cultivar
None identified (Natural seedling)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 4 through 8
About This Tree
A massive, long-lived deciduous tree with a broad, spreading crown and high ecological value. In its juvenile stage as pictured, it has an upright, slightly irregular form with sparse branching and reddish-green young foliage.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate, 3-5 inches long; obovate with 3-7 pairs of rounded lobes; very short petioles (nearly sessile); dark green upper surface turning yellowish-brown in autumn
Bark Characteristics
Initially smooth and greyish-green on young saplings; develops deep fissured, rectangular plates and a rugged dark grey-brown texture with age
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to most of Europe and Western Asia; widely naturalized in North America and temperate climates
Growing Season
Buds swell in early spring; leaves emerge late April to May; flowers appear with leaves; acorns ripen in autumn; dormant during winter
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun preferred; moderate watering needs. It is relatively drought-tolerant once established but prefers well-drained, moist deep loams
Mature Size
Height of 40-70 feet (can reach 100+ feet), spread of 40-70 feet; slow to moderate growth rate; can live over 500 years
Special Characteristics
Extreme longevity, high timber value (very durable heartwood), susceptible to powdery mildew, excellent tolerance to urban pollution and coastal winds
Wildlife & Ecology
Supports hundreds of insect species, including caterpillars; provides acorns for birds like jays and mammals like squirrels; provides nesting sites for large birds