Pin Oak

Pin Oak (Quercus palustris)

Pin Oak (Quercus palustris) is a fast-growing deciduous oak known for its strong central leader, deeply lobed leaves, and tidy pyramidal form. Native to the eastern and central United States, this species is widely planted in residential, commercial, and municipal landscapes thanks to its adaptability and consistent shape.

Distinctive Features

Pin Oak typically reaches 60 to 70 feet tall with a narrow, pyramidal crown that becomes more oval with age. Its glossy green leaves have sharply pointed lobes and turn bronze to deep red in fall. Lower branches angle downward while upper branches reach upward, giving the tree its characteristic layered silhouette. Small, rounded acorns are borne annually and support birds and wildlife. Bark is smooth and gray in youth, developing shallow ridges over time.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Soil Type: Moist, acidic loam or clay; tolerates poorly drained soils
• Soil pH: Acidic; may suffer chlorosis in high pH soils
• Water Needs: Moderate; tolerates brief flooding
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 8

Ideal Uses

• Street tree for wide parkways and boulevards
• Focal point in suburban front yards and campuses
• Shade tree for large lawns and open greenspaces
• Rain gardens and stormwater basins
• Reforestation or riparian buffer plantings

Low Maintenance Care

• Requires minimal pruning due to naturally uniform shape
• Water regularly during the first few years to encourage deep roots
• Apply mulch to maintain moisture and protect young trees
• Best performance in acidic soils; avoid planting in alkaline conditions
• Generally pest- and disease-resistant with proper siting

Why Choose Pin Oak

• Elegant, pyramidal form enhances formal and natural landscapes
• Fast growth and strong structure with minimal training
• Reliable fall color in red to bronze shades
• Provides wildlife value with annual acorn production
• A versatile focal point for streets, lawns, and wet soil areas

Pin Oak brings dependable structure, fast growth, and seasonal color to a wide range of landscape settings�making it a classic and functional focal point for both residential and urban designs.