Quercus rubra - Red Oak

The Red Oak is a very fast-growing tree (up to 2.5cm per year) originating in North America. A handsome tree, it has deeply cut, pointed lobed leaves which turn a spectacular red in autumn before leaf fall. Introduced into Britain in 1724, it has always been a popular choice for parkland planting due to its large ornamental leaves and good autumn colour.

Site and soil

The Red Oak does best on lime-free soil where it develops the best autumn colour. It is tolerant of pollution.

Height and spread

Below are the approximate stages of growth, assuming sited in suitable conditions for this species;

After 10 years: 10m x 6m
After 20 years: 15m x 9m

Leaf and bark

The deeply cut, pointed lobed leaves are large (25-30cm long). They open bright yellow for a few weeks, before becoming green with a paler underside. The autumn colour before leaf fall is red, then brownish-red. The bark is smooth and grey.

Flower, seed and fruit

The yellow-green male catkins and much smaller female flowers open in May. The cupped acorns remain small in the first year, before ripening in the second; they are a dark red-brown.

Uses

Woodland, parkland, avenues, specimen tree, landscaping. The wood of the Red Oak is valued for its timber. The bark is used in tanning.

Wildlife

Flowers provide pollen for insects. Birds and small mammals eat the acorns.