White Oak
Quercus alba · Deciduous Hardwood
Plant Family
Fagaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree / Forest Tree / Timber Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Standard species (no specific named cultivar identified from log view)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 3 to 9
About This Tree
Large, majestic deciduous tree with a massive spreading crown at maturity, heavy hardwood trunk, and distinct blocky, scaly bark.
Leaf Characteristics
Alternate, simple leaves with 5 to 9 rounded lobes, deeply cut sinuses, bright green in summer turning rich red to purplish-brown in autumn.
Bark Characteristics
Light ash-gray to whitish bark, deeply furrowed into narrow, vertical blocks and scaly ridges that often flake slightly at the edges.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eastern and central North America, well-adapted to temperate forest zones.
Growing Season
Leafs out in spring, produces acorns in autumn, drops leaves after fall color display, dormant in winter.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Prefers full sun, moderate watering needs once established, exhibits good drought tolerance.
Mature Size
Reaches heights of 80 to 100 feet with an equal or greater spread, moderate growth rate, and a very long lifespan spanning centuries.
Special Characteristics
High-value timber, excellent fall color, highly durable wood traditionally used in shipbuilding and barrel making, good drought tolerance.
Wildlife & Ecology
Supports numerous caterpillars, birds, and mammals. Acorns are a vital food source for white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, squirrels, and jays.