Red Oak (Quercus rubra)

The red oak (Quercus rubra) is truly a king of the northeastern forests. While this species is widely distributed across eastern North America, we are near the northern end of its native range.  This highly adaptable species is often planted as a street tree, but also serves important ecological functions in nature by providing food and shelter for wildlife.  Under the right conditions, red oaks can be expected to grow 2'+ per year and can live as long as 500 years. When grown in competition with other trees, it will grow straight and tall.  Open-grown trees form a broad, rounded canopy with large gnarly branches. In the fall, their leaves turn to magnificent shades of red.  Trees will often hold onto their leaves through the winter - a phenomenon known as marcescence - which makes for a nice reminder of spring during the cold dark months.

There is nothing quite like standing under a cathedral of mature red oaks.

Seed Source(s): New Brunswick - Acadian Forest Region Native

Hardiness (Canada): 3 [What is my hardiness zone?]

*Use the dropdown menu above to see bulk pack options*

Orders placed between Jan 1 and May 1: Delivery / ready for pickup in late April or early May 2025