Bur oak (Quercus macrocarpa)

Bur oak

Also known as: Prairie oak, Mossycup white oak

A deciduous tree native to North America, the bur oak is large and reaches mature heights over 46 m tall. The acorns that come from this tree are the largest of all the oak trees. Bur oak is used most often for shade, in shelterbelts, or as an ornamental.

Scientific classification

Species

Bur oak (Quercus macrocarpa)

Beeches, walnuts, and allied trees

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

30 m

Plant Height

18 m to 24 m

Spread

Green, Yellow, Brown

Leaf Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Bur oak

Attributes of Bur oak

Growth Rate

The slow growth rate of bur oak during its active growing seasons of spring and summer results in a meticulous development of its features. This gradual rhythm enables a steady growth pattern, leading to robust and intricate leaf production, while postponing significant height gain. Remarkably, the slow growth adds to its resilience in challenging conditions.

Distribution of Bur oak

Distribution Map

Bur oak is native to most of North America. The plant prefers limestone soil, but it thrives in several habitats, including woodland, fertile slopes, damp bottomlands, and dry hillsides.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Dry hillsides, Moist bottomlands, Rich woods, Fertile slopes, Limestone soils

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Bur oak truly is a mighty oak that grows to a towering height and spreads over a great area. You'll need a large garden to grow this giant, and it is more commonly seen in parklands and open spaces. However, it is an attractive tree that attracts butterflies, birds, and mammals, and can be a rewarding specimen and shade tree for large lawns. Plants that grow well in the same conditions as this oak include rhododendrons, pine trees, and hardy ferns.

Symbolism

Strength, courage, protection

Interesting Facts

Bur oak is highly tolerant of pollution, making it an ideal choice for planting in urban areas and parks. Its long taproot makes it extremely drought tolerant, while its thick bark makes it able to withstand fires. A number of parks and cities have been named after this beautiful, ornamental tree.

Name Story

Bur oak: This plant is one of the slowest growing oaks as it grows only 30 cm tall per year during its infancy It is also one of the largest oak in which the trunks can reach up to 3 m in diameter. Moreover, it has the largest fruit among the oak trees in North America. The specific epithet, macrocarpa refers to the meaning of "large", so it holds up to the name Bur oak.

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Toxicity

Bur oak is a somewhat toxic plant, mainly due to the tannins in its young leaves and acorns, which cause gastrointestinal issues in those who ingest them. Children, cats, and dogs are at risk, with symptoms such as stomachache, vomiting, or diarrhea. Immediate veterinary care is essential if poisoning is suspected in pets.

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Quickly Identify Bur oak

Large acorns with fringed, burlap-like caps, notably mossy.

Distinctive deeply fringed cup encasing oval acorns, resembling chestnut bur.

Leaves with 5-7 deep, rounded lobes and greyish-green undersides.

Stems turn bold-textured, slightly corky, with multiple terminal buds.

Robust trunk with gray, furrowed bark developing pronounced vertical ridges.

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Care Guide for Bur oak

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Bur oak flourishes in temperate conditions, displaying moderate drought tolerance. Water every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to dry slightly between sessions. Seasonal rainfall affects watering, especially for deciduous varieties like bur oak, which need less moisture during dormancy in colder months.

Fertilize: Fertilize bur oak annually with balanced or high nitrogen fertilizers in early spring. Young bur oak need more nitrogen, while established trees require less. Spread granules evenly at the drip line, adjusting for seasonal changes, to promote healthy growth and root development.

Pruning: Bur oak needs careful pruning in early spring to maintain health. Remove dead or crossing branches for airflow and light. Trim competing branches to support a strong central leader. Regular pruning boosts vigor, decreases pest risks, and prevents structural issues while following horticultural guidelines for best results.

Propagation: Propagation of bur oak can be achieved through hardwood cuttings, layering, or seed sowing, with autumn and winter being ideal seasons. Difficulty varies by method, but success is indicated by root and shoot growth. Maintain adequate moisture and warm conditions for best results.

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Images of Bur oak

Attributes of Bur oak

Distribution of Bur oak

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Bur oak

Care Guide for Bur oak

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