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Red Oak, Northern Red Oak
Scientific Name: Quercus rubra L.
Synonym: Quercus borealis, Quercus maxima, Quercus borealis var. maxima
Family: Fagaceae

Show Larger Picture Picture U.S.D.A Forest Service, Courtesy of the Hunt Institute

Recommended Temperature Zone: sunset: 1-12,14-24 USDA: 3-8 Sun Exposure: Full sun Origin: Eastern United States and southeastern Canada Growth Habits: Medium to large, deciduous tree, one of the largest oaks, fast-growing 65 to 100 feet tall (20-30 m), occasionally up to 160 feet (48 m), 45 feet spread (13 m); trunk 2 to 3 feet in diameter, occasionally up to 8 feet in diameter (2.4 m); grayish-brown bark with shallow vertical furrows; leaves glossy dark green above, pale below, 5 to 8 inches long (12.5-20 cm) with 7 to 11 lobes Watering Needs: Needs abundant water and good drainage, in fertile soil Propagation: Seeds (acorns)

Fruiting Habits:
The acorns are 0.7 to 1 inch long (1.8-2.5 cm), bitter tasting, nearly round, maturing after 2 years.