White Oak
Quercus alba · Deciduous broadleaf hardwood
Plant Family
Fagaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree / Forest Tree / Timber
Variety / Cultivar
Species native type, no specific named cultivar
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 3 through 9
About This Tree
Massive majestic shade tree with a broad rounded crown, heavy sturdy branches, and high wildlife value at maturity
Leaf Characteristics
Alternate, simple leaves with 7 to 9 rounded lobes, deep sinuses, smooth margins, bright green turning purplish-red to brown in fall
Bark Characteristics
Light ash-gray to whitish bark, deeply furrowed into narrow, scaly vertical blocks or plates, highly distinctive texture
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eastern and central North America
Growing Season
Spring leaf out, flowers in spring with catkins, acorns mature in autumn, dormancy through winter
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun, moderate water needs once established, good drought tolerance
Mature Size
Height of 50 to 80 feet with an equal or greater spread, slow to moderate growth rate, very long lifespan exceeding several centuries
Special Characteristics
Strong durable hardwood timber, high resistance to decay, excellent fall color, valued for historical and structural use
Wildlife & Ecology
Acorns provide vital food for numerous mammals and birds, supports hundreds of caterpillar species and beneficial insects