Willow oak - Quercus phellos (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Toxic)

Willow oak

Also known as: Peach oak

Willow oak (Quercus phellos) is a medium-sized deciduous tree native to North America. It is easily distinguished from other species of oaks by the shape of its leaves - Quercus phellos has lanceolate, oval leaves which resemble those of willow, hence the common name.

Scientific classification

Species

Willow oak (Quercus phellos)

Beeches, walnuts, and allied trees

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

20 m to 30 m

Plant Height

9 m to 15 m

Spread

Green, Yellow

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Green, Copper, Black

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Silver, Gray

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Willow oak

Attributes of Willow oak

Growth Rate

Undergoing rapid growth in the spring and summer, willow oak exhibits heightened leaf production and substantial height increase. This increased growth results in a dense canopy formation, fostering a shade-tolerant undergrowth. Despite slowed growth in autumn, the established momentum from the active seasons contributes to its overall robust stature.

Distribution of Willow oak

Distribution Map

The willow oak tree is native to the eastern and central United States with a distribution range that includes eastern Texas where the tree grows in deciduous and mixed forests. It is also cultivated as a garden tree in the United States.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Swamps, Streams, Sandy uplands on rich soils

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Willow oak is a large and attractive tree that is rarely grown in gardens because of its large size and spread. Given enough space though, it makes for a striking landscape and shade tree, and it offers a great range of colors in fall. Azaleas, wood rose, and creeping mahonia will thrive underneath this tree.

Symbolism

Love, Divination, Protection, Strength, Nobility

Interesting Facts

Famous Nashville, Tennessee musician Will Hoge has called the willow oak his favorite tree, and jokingly renamed it the Will Hoge Oak. He talks at length about the benefits that willow oak trees can have in regard to energy conservation and erosion control in the Nature Conservatory's series If Trees Could Sing.

Name Story

Willow oak: If you observe the plant closely, you will find that its leaves are different from most Quercus plants. Its leaves are long and slender like willow leaves, so it is called willow oak. Since World War II, most parts of the states have been rebuilt and developed. As for this reason, this plant has become an endangered species.

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Toxicity

The oak tree willow oak contains tannins in its young leaves and acorns, causing mild to moderate symptoms like stomach upset, constipation, and kidney issues if ingested. Willow oak is mildly toxic to cats and dogs, inducing symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. Immediate veterinary care is essential if pets consume parts of willow oak.

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Quickly Identify Willow oak

Slender willow-like leaves with bristle-tipped apex

Yellow-green catkins in spring

Rounded acorns with scaly caps

Hairless greenish-brown stem with reddish-brown buds

Gray to dark gray-brown bark with shallow ridges and furrows

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Care Guide for Willow oak

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Native to moist areas, willow oak prefers consistent moisture but is moderately drought-tolerant. Water every 1-2 weeks, especially during the growing season, to support its health and leaf development. It adapts well to the humidity found in its natural habitat.

Fertilize: For optimal health, willow oak should receive balanced nutrition fertilizers with high nitrogen during early growth. Fertilize in spring with 1-2 pounds per inch of trunk diameter and reduce frequency to biennial as willow oak matures. Always water after fertilization and monitor for signs of nutritional deficiency.

Pruning: Willow oak thrives with early spring pruning to remove damaged or crossing branches, enhancing airflow and light. This promotes a strong structure, maintains shape, and prevents disease. Minimal cuts on young limbs leverage its rapid healing, improving overall health and aesthetic value.

Propagation: Willow oak can be propagated via hardwood cuttings, layering (air), and sowing seeds in autumn and winter. The process is moderately difficult; indicators of success include root and shoot development. Key tips involve maintaining soil moisture and ensuring adequate light exposure.

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Images of Willow oak

Attributes of Willow oak

Distribution of Willow oak

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Willow oak

Care Guide for Willow oak

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