Red Oak

Quercus rubra

Reaching up to 35m tall, 100cm in diameter, with a crown spread of 45m, can live 300 years. Some of these guardian trees still remain, a living reminder of the magnificent ancient forests that once blessed this land. Excellent shade tree. Beautiful smooth bark in youth becomes deeply grooved in maturity.

Prefers acid soils, able to grow in compacted and polluted areas. Will tolerate some shade while young, requiring full sun in maturity. Grows in damp or dry locations, happy near a lake, stream, pond or on a hill. The observant nature lover will see delicate clusters of hanging yellow flowers appear in early spring along with its emergent leaves. Mature leaves are waxy deep green, with 7-11 sharp lobes, giving way to bright, crimson red fall colours. Turning golden brown in the winter, often remaining on the tree. In maturity produces an abundance of acorns, an important resource for our animal friends.