Northern Red Oak
Quercus rubra · Deciduous, Broadleaf, Hardwood
Plant Family
Fagaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Forest Tree, Street Tree
Variety / Cultivar
None (Natural Species)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 3-8
About This Tree
A large, fast-growing deciduous tree with a broad, rounded crown. It is known for its symmetrical shape, dense foliage, and strong structural stability. It is often used as a flagship shade tree in urban and natural landscapes.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate leaves with 7-11 waxy lobes; lobes have bristle-tipped teeth. Emerging leaves are fuzzy and reddish, turning dark green in summer and russet-red to bright red in autumn.
Bark Characteristics
Initially smooth and gray on young trees; matures into thick, dark gray-brown bark with long, smooth, flat-topped ridges that look like 'ski tracks.'
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Eastern North America (USA and Canada), widely adapted to temperate climates
Growing Season
Leaves emerge in spring with pinkish-red tints, flowers (catkins) appear in late spring, acorns ripen in second year, dormancy in winter
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun preferred; moderate water needs. Once established, it is moderately drought-tolerant but prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soils.
Mature Size
Height: 60-75 feet, Spread: 60-75 feet. Growth Rate: Fast (up to 2 feet per year), Lifespan: 200-400 years.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional fall color, high timber value for flooring and furniture, highly tolerant of urban pollution and salt, relatively resistant to Oak Wilt compared to other Red Oak group members.
Wildlife & Ecology
Significant ecological value; provides high-quality acorns (mast) for squirrels, deer, and blue jays. Serves as a host plant for hundreds of species of Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) and provides excellent nesting sites for birds.