English Oak
Quercus robur · Deciduous, Broadleaf, Hardwood
Plant Family
Fagaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Forest Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Common species/Standard form
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 4-8; adaptable to temperate climates with cool winters.
About This Tree
A magnificent, long-lived tree with a broad, spreading, rounded crown. It features a massive trunk and heavy horizontal branching. Growth rate is slow to moderate, reaching immense proportions over centuries.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate leaves with 3-7 pairs of rounded lobes and very short stalks (sessile). Dark green above, paler beneath, turning yellow-brown or reddish-brown in autumn.
Bark Characteristics
Greyish-brown in color. Young bark is smooth, but it becomes deeply fissured and rugged with thick, rectangular plates as the tree matures.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. Extensively planted in North America and temperate regions worldwide.
Growing Season
Buds open in mid-to-late spring; flowers appear shortly after. Acorns mature in late summer and drop in autumn. Enters dormancy in late fall after leaves turn brown.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Requires full sun for optimal development. Prefers moist, well-drained loams but is highly adaptable to various soil types once established. Moderate drought tolerance.
Mature Size
Reaches 40-70 feet in cultivation but can exceed 100 feet in the wild; spread is often equal to or greater than height. Can live over 500 years.
Special Characteristics
Highly valued for its durable, high-quality timber. Symbolizes strength and endurance in many cultures. Known for longevity and the ability to withstand heavy winds.
Wildlife & Ecology
Critical ecological species supporting hundreds of insect species. Acorns provide essential food for jays, squirrels, and small mammals. Provides excellent nesting sites for birds.