Oak (Red)

Of all the Oaks, Red Oak, or Quercus rubra, is the most distinguished for its bold, clean trunk and branches. The smooth bark, striated in long vertical sections, highlights the contrast between the smooth, raised surface and the darker-colored bark in between. This structure is especially handsome in the winter. Red Oak is a large tree, growing up to 70' or more with a 50'-70' spread.

The new growth in springtime is an interesting dusty, bronze-red hue which is almost as striking as the spring-flowering trees. In the fall, the Red Oak acorns are among the first acorns to ripen, making them an important early food source for wildlife. One interesting fact about Quercus rubra is that it may not produce a full crop of acorns before reaching 40 years of age!

I am becoming increasingly impressed with the performance and longevity of Red Oak. It doesn't like heavily compacted soil, but otherwise, it's a reliable urban performer. With its bold outline and clean trunk and branches, it makes an impressive silhouette against the sunrise or sunset.