Quercus rubra (red oak)
red oak (3 gallon, 4-6')
Northern red oak is a medium-sized, deciduous tree with a rounded to broad-spreading, often irregular crown. Good shade or specimen tree.Typically grows at a moderate-to-fast rate to a height of 50–75'. Under optimal conditions and full sun, a 10-year-old tree can be 16–20' tall. Trees may live up to 400 years. Distinctive bark with ridges that appear to have shiny stripes down the center. Dark, lustrous green leaves turn brownish-red in autumn. Easily grown in average, dry to medium moisture, acidic soil in full sun. Prefers fertile, sandy, finely textured soils with good drainage.
Northern red oak is native to eastern and central U.S. In Maryland, it is common in western and central Maryland but not on the coastal plain, where the southern red oak is more commonly found. The northern red oak is a host plant for various moth species. Acorns are a favorite food for wood ducks, pheasants, grackles, jays, nuthatches, thrushes, woodpecker,s rabbits, foxes, squirrels, and deer. On Maryland DNR's Recommended Tree List.
BONAP Native Range Map (bright green indicates county native, dark green indicates state native)
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