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PlantSnap
Plant Care
Northern red oak
(Quercus rubra)
Also Known As
Northern red oak, Red oak, Eastern red oak
About This Plant
Quercus rubra, commonly known as Northern Red Oak, is a large deciduous tree that can grow up to 100 feet (30 meters) tall. It has a broad, rounded crown and a straight trunk with grayish-brown bark. The leaves are dark green and deeply lobed, turning red in the fall.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
60-100 feet (18-30 meters) tall, 45-50 feet (13-15 meters) wide
Light Requirements
Quercus rubra prefers full sun to partial shade.
Humidity Needs
Quercus rubra can tolerate a wide range of humidity levels.
Fertilizing Schedule
Fertilize in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for trees.
Pruning Guidelines
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches, as well as any crossing branches that could rub against each other and cause wounds.
Common Pests and Diseases
Quercus rubra is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including oak wilt, powdery mildew, and gypsy moth.
Indoor Size Range
Not suitable for indoor growth
Watering Schedule
Water regularly, especially during the first year after planting. Once established, the tree is drought-tolerant and only needs to be watered during prolonged dry spells.
Temperature Range
Quercus rubra is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8, which means it can tolerate temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C).
Growing Season
Quercus rubra grows best in the spring and summer, and it is dormant during the winter.
Growing Difficulty Level
Quercus rubra is relatively easy to grow, but it requires a lot of space and is not suitable for small yards.
USDA Hardiness Zones
3 to 8
Did You Know?
Quercus rubra is the state tree of New Jersey, USA.
