White Oak
Quercus alba · Deciduous broadleaf hardwood
Plant Family
Fagaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree / Forest Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Species type (no specific named cultivar identified from the bark)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 9
About This Tree
A large, majestic deciduous tree with a massive rounded crown, strong spreading branches, and a straight trunk. Known for long lifespan and durable dense hardwood.
Leaf Characteristics
Alternate, simple leaves with 7 to 9 rounded lobes, deep sinuses, dark green above and paler below, turning rich red to purplish-brown in autumn
Bark Characteristics
Light gray to whitish, deeply furrowed into distinct blocky or scaly plates, often exfoliating slightly in vertical strips on older trees
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eastern and central North America
Growing Season
Leaves out in mid-spring, flowers in spring with catkins, drops acorns in autumn, enters winter dormancy late autumn
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun preferred; moderate water needs once established, displays good drought tolerance
Mature Size
Height of 80 to 100 feet with an equal or greater spread, moderate growth rate, and a lifespan often exceeding 300 years
Special Characteristics
Produces edible sweet acorns, highly valued strong heavy timber, excellent reddish-brown fall color, and good tolerance to urban pollution once established
Wildlife & Ecology
Supports an exceptionally high number of lepidopteran larvae (caterpillars), providing vital food for birds; acorns feed numerous mammals and birds including jays, squirrels, and deer