Southern red oak (Quercus falcata)

Southern red oak

Also known as: Water oak, Three-lobed red oak

Reaching heights of 21 to 24 m, the southern red oak is a magnificent shade tree that can live up to 275 years. It is of great importance to both man and wildlife having numerous uses, such as a nesting site and source of food for birds and mammals. Lumber from this hardwood is also used for furniture and construction.

Scientific classification

Species

Southern red oak (Quercus falcata)

Beeches, walnuts, and allied trees

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

25 m to 44 m

Plant Height

18 m to 21 m

Spread

Green, White

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Brown, Orange, Gray, Silver

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Southern red oak

Attributes of Southern red oak

Growth Rate

Encompassing spring and summer, the moderate growth speed of southern red oak manifests as a steady height increase and progressive leaf production. These phases reflect southern red oak's cultivation resilience, particularly noticeable in summer. This pace potentially accentuates its inherent drought tolerance, marking southern red oak's adaptive vitality in evolving environments.

Distribution of Southern red oak

Distribution Map

Southern red oak is native to the eastern United States. It is a common tree throughout many upland forests in this region, and it is also planted in urban settings.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Dry sandy or clay upland

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Southern red oak is a popular tree in front and backyards, prized for its spreading branches which give it an even leafy canopy. When the leaves change in autumn, it adds even more color to the area. Southern red oak is often grown with Asiatic ivy and other dark green groundcovers that contrast against the red leaf buds in the spring.

Symbolism

Protection, Health, Money

Name Story

Southern red oak: Red oak refers to two important timber trees, the northern red oak (Quercus rubra) and the southern red oak (Q. falcata). As it is originated from the middle of southern part of the united states, it is called southern red oak.

Spanish oak: It is considered as a moderate-to-tall sized tree. The leaves are variable in patterns but usually come in a prominent pair of lobes on the leaf tip. The tree is also called Spanish oak, possibly because it is native to areas of early Spanish colonies.

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Toxicity

Southern red oak tree's tissues (leaves and seeds) contain tannins causing digestive issues in children and cognitive-impaired individuals. Cats and dogs might face mild toxicity if they ingest large amounts, leading to gastrointestinal problems. Immediate veterinary care is advised for pets showing distress post-ingestion to ensure proper treatment and recovery. Avoiding ingestion can prevent symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea in pets. Southern red oak should be monitored around these groups.

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Quickly Identify Southern red oak

Falcate leaves with a U-shaped base, measuring 5-9 inches (12.7-22.9 cm) long and 4-5 inches (10.2-12.7 cm) wide.

Distinctive bowl-shaped acorn with warty, hairy cap, 0.6-1 inch (15-25 mm) in length.

Smooth gray bark on medium branches, orange-brown angular twigs, 0.1 to 0.2 inches (2.5 to 5 mm) in diameter.

Male flowers in slender yellowish-green catkins, 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long, lacking fragrance.

Mature trunk with dark gray, scaly bark, broad ridges, and deep furrows for a rugged texture.

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Care Guide for Southern red oak

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Southern red oak thrives in areas with moderate rainfall, requiring watering every 1-2 weeks to remain healthy. As a deciduous tree, it sheds leaves in winter, minimizing water loss and enhancing survival during dormancy.

Fertilize: For southern red oak, use a balanced fertilizer during spring and summer, with high-nitrogen options in early spring. Fertilize biannually and reduce in autumn. Apply at the drip line, dilute to prevent root burn, and safeguard waterways from runoff for optimal growth.

Pruning: Southern red oak is a deciduous tree with lobed leaves, requiring early spring pruning to remove dead or crossing branches. This practice promotes healthy growth by enhancing air circulation and light penetration. Use clean, sharp tools to prevent disease, supporting overall health and aesthetic appeal.

Propagation: Southern red oak propagates via hardwood cuttings, layering, and seeds in autumn and winter. Success indicators include new growth and root development. Maintain adequate soil moisture and provide ample sunlight for optimal results.

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Images of Southern red oak

Attributes of Southern red oak

Distribution of Southern red oak

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Southern red oak

Care Guide for Southern red oak

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