Black oak (Quercus velutina)

Black oak

Also known as: Quercitron oak

Black oak (Quercus velutina) is a deciduous tree with a rounded, wide crown, found on hills, slopes, and ridges of eastern North America. The common name refers to the color of its bark. Black oak often hybridizes with other plants of the genus Quercus.

Scientific classification

Species

Black oak (Quercus velutina)

Beeches, walnuts, and allied trees

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

20 m to 25 m

Plant Height

6 m to 18 m

Spread

Green, Red, Brown, Yellow

Leaf Color

Brown

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Green, Red, Yellow, Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Black oak

Attributes of Black oak

Growth Rate

Exhibiting a moderate growth rate, black oak experiences considerable transformation during the Spring and Summer seasons. The calibrated expansion of its canopy mirrors a timely balanced journey, with leaf production, height increment, and trunk thickening harmoniously paced. This tempo of development arguably instigates a robustly structured plant, capable of standing tall amidst seasonal changes. Subtle variations in growth may occur, but they mostly adhere to the moderate growth schema.

Distribution of Black oak

Distribution Map

The black oak is native from southeastern Canada to North Central and Eastern USA, where it occurs in woodland ecosystems. Within its native range, black oak is cultivated and used a construction timber, as well as in landscaping.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Dry sandy, Heavy clay soils

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Black oak (Quercus velutina) is rewarding for its attractively dark bark and glorious fall leaf colors. The tree takes a long time to grow but makes for a good shade tree for large lawns and landscapes. Good plants to grow with this tree include azaleas, boxwoods, and rhododendrons.

Symbolism

Protection, Health, Money, strength

Interesting Facts

Black oak does not produce seeds, or acorns, until it is around twenty years old. Peak seed production usually occurs when the tree is anywhere from twenty to seventyfive years old, however, the acorns are often eaten by wildlife. This greatly reduces the number of trees that are naturally reproduced.

Name Story

Black oak: The bark of this widely distributed plant is almost fully black colored and covered with wrinkled ravines. The velvety red leaves form a contrast with the unique black wrinkled bark in order to display the uniqueness of its bark. So, it is called black oak

Dyer's oak: Although the bark of this plant is black colored, the inside is yellow or orange-colored, which can make a yellow dye called quercitron. Hence, it is also called dyer's oak.

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Toxicity

Black oak contains tannins in young leaves and acorns causing mild to moderate toxicity in humans, resulting in stomachache, diarrhea, and potential liver lesions. Cats and dogs are mildly poisoned by ingesting large amounts of leaves or seeds. Symptoms in pets include gastrointestinal upset. Immediate veterinary care is required if ingestion is suspected.

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Quickly Identify Black oak

Velvety texture on young leaves due to fine hairs

Distinctive acorns with a cap featuring loosely arranged scales

Male flowers in pendent, slender catkins; wind-pollinated

Gray twigs with white lenticels; terminal buds covered in gray hairs

Starkly contrasting bark with dark outer layer and yellow inner bark

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Care Guide for Black oak

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Black oak thrives in moderate moisture environments and tolerates dry spells. Watering should occur every 1-2 weeks, maintaining slight soil dampness. Its watering needs increase during the active growth season to support leaf development, making it suitable for outdoor growth as a deciduous tree.

Fertilize: For black oak, use a balanced fertilizer in spring to promote growth, applying every 2-3 months per product guidelines. Reduce feeding in late summer for dormancy preparation. Water soil before and after application to avoid burn. Follow instructions and wear gloves to ensure safety.

Pruning: Black oak features rugged bark and vibrant autumn foliage and requires careful pruning in early spring. Key techniques include removing dead or damaged branches and thinning for improved airflow. Regular pruning fosters strong growth, enhancing pest and disease resistance. For detailed guidance, consult reputable horticultural sources.

Propagation: Black oak propagates via hardwood cuttings, air layering, and seed sowing in autumn and winter. Success is marked by new growth. Use rooting hormone and maintain proper moisture for optimal results.

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Images of Black oak

Attributes of Black oak

Distribution of Black oak

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Black oak

Care Guide for Black oak

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