Northern Red Oak

Quercus rubra

KWER-kus ROO-bruh
40 to 60 ft.
40 to 60 ft.
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moderate

green-yellow

inconspicuous

40 to 60 ft.

40 to 60 ft.

No

eastern North America

sun

USDA zones 3-8

hardy to 6,000 ft.

Northern red oak is a large shade tree grown for its impressive fall color. It has a rounded growth habit throughout life - often broader than tall. The lustrous dark green leaves in summer turn brilliant shades of bronze, red and maroon in the autumn.

The bark is shallowly grooved and rather plated in appearance. Compared to other slow-growing oaks, red oak grows at a moderate rate. It is moderately drought tolerant, having a shallow root system, which makes it suitable for planting next to a regularly-watered lawn area.

 

moderate

green-yellow

inconspicuous

40 to 60 ft.

40 to 60 ft.

No

eastern North America

sun

USDA zones 3-8

hardy to 6,000 ft.

This tree is growing well in the moderate water zone of the Xeriscape Demonstration Garden. It has impressive red leaf color in fall. It has not had any problems with iron cholorosis.

Prune out dead or damaged branches as needed. Prune when young to achieve desired shape. Red oak is moderately drought tolerant, but should be watered regularly if possible.

In soils with a high pH, iron chlorosis may become a problem, causing yellow leaves. It can be worth having your soil's pH tested at a professional soil laboratory if you suspect there might be an issue.