Northern Red Oak

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.

 

Northern Red Oak

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.

 

Plant details
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Botanic Name

Quercus rubra

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Pronunciation

KWER-kus ROO-bruh

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Mature Height

40 to 60 ft.

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Mature Spread

40 to 60 ft.

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Water usage
Water Usage

One Droplet: Water twice per month or less, once established.

Two Droplets: Water about once per week, once established.

Three Droplets: Water about twice per week, once established.

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Flower Color

green-yellow

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Bloom time

inconspicuous

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Colorado Native

No

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Natural Habitat

eastern North America

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Light Requirements

sun

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Cold Hardiness

USDA zones 3-8

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Elevation Limit

hardy to 6,000 ft.

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