Pacific Brilliance Pin Oak

Pacific Brilliance Pin Oak (Quercus palustris 'PWJR08')

Pacific Brilliance Pin Oak (Quercus palustris 'PWJR08'), also known simply as Pacific Brilliance Oak, is a refined, upright cultivar selected for its symmetrical branching, strong central leader, and vibrant fall color. Bred from the native Pin Oak, this improved selection is ideal for modern landscapes where uniform shape and urban adaptability are valued.

Distinctive Features

This cultivar matures to 45 to 60 feet tall with a pyramidal to oval canopy and an especially upright growth habit. Its dark green, deeply lobed leaves turn shades of red and burgundy in autumn. Pacific Brilliance is noted for reduced chlorosis in higher pH soils compared to standard Pin Oak and shows better branching uniformity. Small, rounded acorns are produced in fall and are readily consumed by wildlife. Bark is smooth and gray when young, becoming more furrowed with age.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Soil Type: Moist, well-drained loam or clay soils
• Soil pH: Tolerates slightly alkaline to acidic soils
• Water Needs: Moderate; benefits from consistent moisture in early years
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 8

Ideal Uses

• Street tree in residential neighborhoods or commercial corridors
• Focal point in urban or suburban front yards
• Shade tree for campuses and municipal landscapes
• Formal all�es or uniform row plantings
• Rain gardens and stormwater-adjacent plantings

Low Maintenance Care

• Prune in late winter to maintain strong structure and airflow
• Water regularly during establishment for deep root development
• Apply mulch to suppress weeds and moderate soil temperature
• Resistant to chlorosis in slightly alkaline soils
• Rarely affected by pests or significant diseases

Why Choose Pacific Brilliance Pin Oak

• Uniform growth and symmetry ideal for formal designs
• Improved tolerance to alkaline soils over standard Pin Oak
• Fast-growing with vivid red fall foliage
• Excellent branching structure with minimal pruning needs
• A striking focal point for streetscapes and public plantings

Pacific Brilliance Pin Oak delivers classic oak beauty with improved urban adaptability and consistent structure�making it a standout focal point in any planned landscape or municipal tree program.