Northern Red Oak

Description

Northern Red Oak is a large, fast growing shade tree native to eastern North America, known for its symmetrical crown and vibrant fall foliage. It is a foundational forest species and a popular choice for urban landscaping due to its hardiness and tolerance to pollution. It is one of the fastest growing oaks, often adding more than 2 feet of height per year when young. The leaves are large and long with 7 to 11 pointed lobes ending in bristle tips. In autumn, they turn a brilliant scarlet, deep red, or rusty bronze. It produces large, bitter acorns with a shallow, saucer shaped cap. These acorns take two years to mature and are a critical food source for wildlife like deer, squirrels, and bears. Requires full sun for optimal growth, though it can tolerate moderate shade when very young.