Quercus rubra

Quercus rubra (American red oak) is a large deciduous tree highly valued in landscaping for its rapid growth and spectacular fall color.

 General description

• Vigorous tree, with wide, rounded trunk

• Large, lobed leaves, glossy green in summer

• Autumn: intense brick-red or purple-red color

• Bark smooth in young specimens, becoming furrowed with age

 Dimensions

• Height at maturity: 20–30 m

• Crown width: 15–20 m

• Rapid growth, especially in the early years

 Planting conditions

• Exposure: full sun (also tolerates partial shade)

• Soil: deep, fertile, well drained; it prefers slightly acidic soils

• Watering: moderate; drought tolerant after installation

• Climate: very resistant to cold (suitable for continental climate)

 Fruits

• Produce acorns large, rounded, maturing in 2 years

• Attracts wildlife (birds, squirrels)

Maintenance

• It requires little maintenance

• Cuts only for training or sanitation at young ages

• It does not tolerate soil compaction in the root zone well

 Use in landscaping

• Ideally like solitary tree in parks, large gardens, wide alignments

• Provides dense shade in summer

• Great ornamental value in autumn

• Suitable for large urban spaces and sustainable landscaping projects