Oak, Northern Red, Bare Root

Northern Red Oak (Quercus rubra)

Northern Red Oak is a fast-growing, majestic native tree valued for its strong wood, vibrant fall color, and adaptability to various soil conditions. Known for its symmetrical crown, deeply lobed leaves, and ridged bark with distinctive reddish-brown inner bark, Northern Red Oak is a popular choice for urban landscapes, parks, and native plantings. Its large acorns provide a nutritious food source for wildlife, while its durability and easy care make it a reliable shade tree for diverse landscapes.

Key Characteristics

Vibrant Red Fall Foliage: Northern Red Oak’s dark green leaves turn shades of red to russet in autumn, creating a dramatic seasonal display. Its rich fall color enhances any landscape and is particularly striking in open park-like settings.

Wildlife-Supporting Acorns: Northern Red Oak produces large acorns that mature in the fall and serve as a critical food source for squirrels, deer, turkeys, and various bird species. The tree’s acorn production adds significant ecological value to native gardens and wildlife habitats.

Fast-Growing and Hardy: Northern Red Oak is one of the faster-growing oaks, making it ideal for quickly establishing shade. This hardy tree is adaptable to a range of soil types, including clay and rocky soils, and can withstand urban pollution, drought, and a variety of challenging conditions.

Rugged, Ornamental Bark: The tree’s bark is smooth and gray when young, gradually developing deep furrows and flat, vertical ridges that reveal a reddish inner layer. This bark provides year-round visual interest, especially in winter landscapes.

Pollinator-Friendly Spring Catkins: In spring, Northern Red Oak produces small, yellowish catkins that provide an early-season pollen source for bees and other pollinators, adding support to local ecosystems.

Product Details

Native Range: Eastern and Central United States
Plant Life Cycle: Deciduous tree
Sun Requirements: Full sun
Soil Requirements: Well-drained soils; adaptable to clay, loamy, and rocky soils
Mature Height: 60-75 feet
Bloom Time: Spring (catkins)
Fall Color: Red to russet
USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-8
With its rapid growth, beautiful fall foliage, and wildlife value, Northern Red Oak is an exceptional tree for large landscapes, native plantings, and urban areas where it can thrive and provide shade for generations.