White Oak

White Oak (Quercus alba)

White Oak (Quercus alba) is a majestic, long-lived native oak tree known for its broad, rounded crown, strong branching structure, and brilliant seasonal color. Revered as one of North America's most iconic hardwoods, it plays an essential role in native ecosystems and is widely used in landscapes for its durability, shade, and wildlife value.

Distinctive Features

This species grows slowly into a large, stately tree with a spreading canopy that can exceed 80 feet in width. Its deeply lobed, bluish-green leaves turn vibrant shades of red to burgundy in fall, providing spectacular autumn color. The bark is light gray and furrowed, contributing to its recognizable appearance. Acorns are produced every 3 to 5 years and serve as a critical food source for wildlife, including birds, deer, and squirrels.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Soil Type: Deep, well-drained loam or clay
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
• Water Needs: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3 to 9

Ideal Uses

• Large shade tree for lawns, parks, and estates
• Restoration and native habitat planting
• Street or specimen tree in open areas
• Long-term legacy tree for homesteads
• Anchor or focal point in large-scale landscapes

Low Maintenance Care

• Prune in youth to establish strong structure; minimal pruning needed when mature
• Apply mulch to protect the root zone and conserve moisture
• Supplemental water during prolonged droughts may be beneficial
• Generally pest and disease resistant, especially in native settings
• Protect young trees from browsing deer until established

Why Choose White Oak

• One of the most iconic and ecologically important native trees
• Provides exceptional shade and fall color
• Supports a wide range of native wildlife and pollinators
• Durable, drought-tolerant, and long-lived
• An enduring focal point for naturalistic or heritage landscapes

White Oak combines timeless beauty, ecological value, and structural strength�making it a premier choice for those looking to plant a lasting, meaningful focal point in their landscape.