Oaks: Majestic Shade Trees for Every Landscape

Oaks (Quercus) include some of our most treasured large shade trees, but also small and medium varieties. Many have classic lobed leaves; all produce acorns. Generally, oaks prefer deep soil for root anchorage. Three widely adapted species:

Scarlet Oak (Q. coccinea)

Zones: 2-24, 31-41. Deciduous. Moderate to fast growth to 60–80 ft tall, 40–50 ft wide. High, open branching and deep roots make it a good lawn or garden tree. Bright green 3- to 6-inch leaves turn scarlet in cold autumns. Moderate water.

Holly Oak (Q. ilex)

Zones: 4-24, warmer parts of 32. Evergreen. Dense, moderate growth to 40–70 ft high and wide. Dark green leaves (3 inches) with silvery undersides; smooth or toothed edges. Moderate water; tolerates wind and salt air. Good street or lawn tree.

Pin Oak (Q. palustris)

Zones: 2-10, 14-24, 28-41. Deciduous. 50–70 ft tall, 25–40 ft wide, moderate to fast. Pyramidal when young, broadening with age; lowest branches droop. Glossy dark green 3- to 6-inch leaves with bristle-pointed lobes turn yellow, red, then russet brown in fall. Needs ample water; tolerates poor drainage. Widely used as lawn and street tree.

Choose an oak for stature, shade, and seasonal beauty.