Sawtooth Oak
Sawtooth Oak (Quercus acutissima)
Sawtooth Oak (Quercus acutissima) is a fast-growing deciduous oak native to East Asia, valued for its deeply serrated leaves, broad spreading canopy, and dependable acorn production. Popular in both landscape and wildlife settings, it serves as a shade tree, street tree, or a prolific mast producer in restoration and habitat plantings.
Distinctive Features
Sawtooth Oak earns its name from its sharply toothed, lance-shaped leaves that resemble those of a chestnut. Foliage emerges bright yellow-green in spring, turns dark green by summer, and transitions to a rich golden-brown in fall. Trees develop a rounded, wide-spreading canopy and produce abundant acorns that begin dropping earlier than most native oaks�often as soon as 5 to 10 years after planting.
Growing Conditions
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Type: Adaptable; performs well in loam, clay, or sandy soils
- Soil pH: Acidic to slightly alkaline
- Water Needs: Low to moderate once established
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 9
Ideal Uses
- Shade tree for parks, large yards, or open landscapes
- Street or median tree in urban settings
- Wildlife habitat enhancement and food plots
- Windbreak or screening in rural plantings
- Reforestation or soil stabilization projects
Low Maintenance Care
- Prune in winter to establish strong branch structure
- Mulch during early years to conserve moisture
- Water deeply during extended droughts
- Minimal fertilization needed in average soils
- Generally pest and disease resistant with minimal upkeep
Why Choose Sawtooth Oak
- Fast-growing oak with a broad, attractive canopy
- Unique serrated foliage adds seasonal interest
- Heavy acorn production supports local wildlife
- Tolerates a wide range of soil and climate conditions
- An excellent long-term focal point for large landscapes or habitat projects
Sawtooth Oak is a vigorous, adaptable tree that brings bold form, seasonal beauty, and valuable wildlife support�making it an excellent focal point for open spaces, restoration sites, and habitat-rich plantings.
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