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
Botanic Name
Quercus rubra
Pronunciation
KWER-kus ROO-bruh
Mature Height
40 to 60 ft.
Mature Spread
40 to 60 ft.
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.
Flower Color
green-yellow
Bloom time
inconspicuous
Colorado Native
No
Natural Habitat
eastern North America
Light Requirements
sun
Cold Hardiness
USDA zones 3-8
Elevation Limit
hardy to 6,000 ft.
Performance
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.
Maintenance
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.