Northern Red Oak is a large, fast-growing oak native to eastern North America, typically reaching 60–75 feet tall. It is commonly found in forests and widely planted in urban landscapes.
This tree has broad leaves with pointed lobes (leaf divisions) and a glossy green surface. The bark is dark gray with long, flat ridges.
In fall, the foliage turns shades of red to reddish-brown. The tree produces acorns (oak nuts) that mature over two seasons and provide food for wildlife. Northern Red Oak is valued for its strong wood and adaptability.
Pictures coming next year!
Northern red oak. (n.d.). The Morton Arboretum. https://mortonarb.org/plant-and-protect/trees-and-plants/northern-red-oak/
Quercus rubra (Northern Red Oak, Oaks, Red Oak) | North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox. (n.d.). Plants.ces.ncsu.edu. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/quercus-rubra/
Words by Ben Hansen. 2026