Oak, Red (AC)
At a Glance
Latin: Quercus rubra
Zones: 4-9
Other common names: northern red oak, eastern red oak, gray oak
Mature Height: 50-70 ft. Fast growing under good conditions and can get to be 15-20 tall in a 10 year period. It has large single trunk with upright spreading branches.
Soil / Climate: Commonly found in northeastern and north-central U. S. It is easier than most trees to transplant. It prefers to grow in slightly acidic soil but is drought tolerant and can grow in loamy, moist, sandy, well drained and clay soils. It can tolerate the conditions of cities and towns pollution.
Notes: Bristle-tipped leaves turn red in autumn. The brown acorn is round, almost 1 inch long, with a flat, thick, saucer like cap and grows singularly or in pairs. The Red oak is a favorite among lumbermen and landscapers.
Wildlife: Red oak acorns are at the top of the food preference list for blue jays, wild turkeys, squirrels, small rodents, whitetail deer, raccoons, and black bears. Deer also browse the buds and twigs in wintertime.
Brine tolerant
Purchase Size: 2-3 ft.
USDA NRCS Species Information