Swamp white oak - Quercus bicolor (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Toxic)

Swamp white oak

Swamp white oak natives in the central and north-central United States. This tree matures at 15 to 18 m tall and has a growth rate of 30 to 61 cm per year. The swamp white oak does produce acorns, however, the fruit does not appear until the tree is 20 -30 years old.

Scientific classification

Species

Swamp white oak (Quercus bicolor)

Beeches, walnuts, and allied trees

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

18 m to 29 m

Plant Height

15 m to 18 m

Spread

Green, Yellow, Gold, Brown

Leaf Color

3 mm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green, Red, Gold, Cream, Brown, Bronze, Burgundy

Flower Color

Silver, Brown, Gray

Stem Color

Images of Swamp white oak

Attributes of Swamp white oak

Growth Rate

With a rapid growth rate, the Quercus bicolor, known as swamp white oak, exhibits a flurry of activity in spring and summer. This translates into accelerated leaf production, swift height increase, and timely flowering. Observations reveal the plant's attempts to optimize photosynthesis and resource allocation during these active growing seasons. However, despite a general slowdown in fall and winter, the growth pace remains considerable. This physiological agility contributes to its adaptability in varied habitats, highlighting the botanical ingenuity intrinsic to the oak family.

Distribution of Swamp white oak

Distribution Map

Swamp white oak is native to central and eastern Canada and the eastern US, growing in bottomlands, moist woodlands, and stream edges. It is commonly grown as a shade or street tree.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Bottomlands, stream margins, swamps, heavy mucky soils

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Equally useful as a street or lawn tree, swamp white oak provides excellent shade with dense coverage provided by beautiful two-tone green and silver leaves that turn golden in the autumn. Its ability to attract wildlife and birds also make it desirable for planting in parks and native-species gardens. It combines well with Hosta or Rhododendron.

Symbolism

Protection, Health, Money

Name Story

Swamp white oak: It is regarded as one of the most important white oak in wood production. Its wood is similar to birch but it is not any different in wood trade because it usually grows in wet soil, such as wide valleys, low-leveled fields and around the edges of lakes, ponds, or swamps. Hence, it is called swamp white oak.

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Toxicity

Swamp white oak is mildly toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. Consumed parts like young leaves and acorns cause symptoms such as stomachache, diarrhea, and excessive urination in humans. For cats and dogs, uptake can lead to gastrointestinal or respiratory issues. Immediate veterinary care is advised if these pets ingest large amounts.

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Quickly Identify Swamp white oak

Distinctive two-tone oblong leaves with silvery white undersides.

Prominent broad to oval crown with textured, ridged, and furrowed bark.

Shiny light brown acorns, one-third capped with grayish scales.

Male flowers in yellow-green catkins and female flowers in green to red spikes.

Thick, stout trunk with mature bark displaying deep furrows and scaly texture.

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Care Guide for Swamp white oak

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Swamp white oak thrives in moist conditions and prefers consistent soil moisture, with care recommended every 1-2 weeks. This deciduous tree is moderately drought-tolerant but requires high water during its growing season to support healthy foliage development.

Fertilize: To ensure healthy growth of swamp white oak, fertilize annually in early spring using a balanced fertilizer, adjusting for size per instructions. Young swamp white oak may require more frequent feeding during growth phases. As swamp white oak matures, reduce fertilization to prevent damage, maintaining appropriate soil moisture for nutrient uptake.

Pruning: Swamp white oak thrives in wet conditions and requires early spring pruning to remove dead or crossing branches, enhancing air circulation and shape. Clean cuts near the branch collar are essential, as proper technique and timing improve both health and aesthetic appeal.

Propagation: Swamp white oak can be propagated during Autumn and Winter using Hardwood cuttings, Layering (Air), and Sowing - Seeds. It has moderate difficulty, with successful signs being new roots and shoots. Ensure soil remains moist and provides adequate sunlight exposure.

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Images of Swamp white oak

Attributes of Swamp white oak

Distribution of Swamp white oak

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Swamp white oak

Care Guide for Swamp white oak

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