Quercus rubra (q.americana)

Oaks are common trees of our natural woodlands. They border our ponds, occur naturally in our mixed forests, and make magnificent specimen trees in our parks and arboretums where less common species or rare varieties can be seen.

Red oak is also called American oak thanks to its origin in north-eastern USA and Canada, owing to which it is very cold hardy. And just like many other very hardy trees also this one gets considerably tall when adult. Red oak can grow up to 20 m, and even a bit more in large parks where it has enough space and nutrients.

Deciduous leaves are rather big for an oak – up to 20 cm across, cut into bristle-tipped 7-11 lobes. They are deep green and glossy in the season, turning spectacular shades of golden orange, scarlet red and rouge in the autumn. The crown is pyramidal when young, changing to rounded with age when it offers a nice shade. Young trees should be trained into a leader and lateral branches spaced well apart along the trunk to form a strong framework.

Oaks are not fussy about soil type, but this one needs lime-free soil. They do well in well-drained soil, moist is good but boggy is fatal. Once established they withstand drought and city pollution. Newly planted trees need to be staked for 2-3 years to establish. Roots are strong and can heave pavements. Fully hardy to -40°C (USDA zone 3).

Last update 05-10-2010