white oak

White Oak is regarded as one of the most ecologically important trees in eastern North America, due to the enormous list of wildlife species that depend on it. White Oak is a native hardwood tree that also has been cherished by human society for its broad, majestic landscape profile and its superior lumber quality. Being one of the most prominent keystone species in our area, this Oak species is known to support at least 500 species of butterfly and moth (lepidoptera) caterpillars and at least 150 birds and mammals, often leading it to be considered the #1 ecologically important native tree species by many evaluators. In the Fall, leaves often turn to varying shades of red or brown. A unique feature of White Oaks is that their withered and discolored fall leaves may remain attached to the tree during the winter, which creates privacy and wildlife habitation value. White Oak is generally adaptable to different soil types and is drought tolerant once established, but prefers deep, well-drained, loamy soils. These long-lived trees have a slow growth rate of about 1-2 feet a year, and typically grow to between 60 and 100 feet in cultivation. In untouched wild forest settings, it’s possible for White Oaks to grow over 100 feet, with record-holders being nearly 150 feet tall. White Oaks can tolerate partial shade, especially when young, but prefer full sun and will become more intolerant of shade as they age.

Details for Care:

• Soil = Well-drained, Loamy, Moist, Deep, Sandy and Clay Tolerant

• Sun = Full Sun, Partial Shade

• Mature Height = 60 to 100 feet

• Growth Rate = Slow to Moderate

• Fall Leaf Color = Deep Red, Burgundy, Brown