Summary
With wide-spreading branches and the potential to reach 80’ tall, white oak (Quercus alba) is a perfect candidate to serve as a backbone in the garden. This slow-growing oak is less susceptible to bacterial leaf scorch than those in the red oak group. Fall color is variable, with foliage ranging from dull brown to enchanting dark red. Like all native oaks, this keystone plant hosts a multitude of native caterpillars, and the acorns it produces are an important food source for various birds and mammals. White oak prefers well-drained, neutral to acidic soils with medium moisture, although it will tolerate drought and clay-based soils. It prefers full sun, eventually becoming an excellent shade tree and home to such companions as flowering dogwood (Benthamidia florida), oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia), rosebay rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum) and black haw (Viburnum prunifolium). Zones 3-9.
More Details
- Plant Type
tree - Sun/Shade Conditions
full-sun - Foliage Character
deciduous - Soil Moisture
average-to-moist - Flowering Period
mid-spring - Soil PH
acidic, neutral - Flower Color
green - Summer Foliage Color
green - Fall Foliage Color
green, orange, purple, red, yellow - Fruit/Seed Color
brown
Additional Information
Flora of North America, Missouri Botanical Garden, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, Illinois Wildflowers