Quercus Ellipsoidalis
Source: bing.comContents
Description
Quercus Ellipsoidalis, commonly known as Northern Pin Oak or Hill’s Oak, is a deciduous tree that is native to North America. It is a member of the red oak group, and can grow up to 60 feet tall with a spread of 40 feet. The tree has a straight trunk with a dense, rounded crown and a narrow, conical shape when young. The leaves of the Northern Pin Oak are deeply lobed and have a distinct shape, with a glossy green color in summer and a reddish-brown color in autumn.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Fagaceae |
| Genus | Quercus |
Appearance
The Northern Pin Oak has a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from other oak species. Its leaves are deeply lobed with pointed tips and a glossy green color that turns reddish-brown in autumn. The bark of the tree is grayish-brown and develops deep furrows and ridges as the tree ages. The Northern Pin Oak produces acorns that are small and narrow, with a cap that covers less than half of the nut. The tree has a dense, rounded crown and a narrow, conical shape when young that gradually becomes more rounded as it ages.
Care Guide
The Northern Pin Oak is a hardy tree that is relatively easy to care for. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sunlight, but can tolerate some shade. The tree should be watered regularly, especially during periods of drought, and fertilized in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer. The Northern Pin Oak is hardy in USDA zones 3-8 and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from -40°F to 100°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Northern Pin Oak is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but can be susceptible to oak wilt, a fungal disease that can be fatal to the tree. Other potential diseases include leaf spot, powdery mildew, and anthracnose. The tree can also be attacked by several insect pests, including gypsy moths, oak leaf rollers, and scale insects. Regular monitoring and proper care can help prevent and treat these issues before they become severe.
Habitat
The Northern Pin Oak is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and savannas. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sunlight, but can tolerate some shade. The tree is commonly found in the central and eastern United States, from Minnesota and Wisconsin to the Atlantic coast.
Question and Answer
Q: How fast does the Northern Pin Oak grow?
A: The Northern Pin Oak is a relatively slow-growing tree, with an average growth rate of less than one foot per year.
Q: Can the Northern Pin Oak tolerate drought?
A: While the Northern Pin Oak prefers moist soil, it can tolerate some drought once established.
Q: When is the best time to prune the Northern Pin Oak?
A: The best time to prune the Northern Pin Oak is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
Q: Is the Northern Pin Oak a good shade tree?
A: Yes, the Northern Pin Oak can provide excellent shade once it matures, with a dense, rounded crown and a wide spread.
Related Plants
- Quercus rubra (Red Oak)
- Quercus alba (White Oak)
- Quercus palustris (Pin Oak)
- Quercus borealis (Northern Red Oak)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Quercus Ellipsoidalis. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e745
- University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension. (n.d.). Northern Pin Oak (Quercus Ellipsoidalis). Retrieved from https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/northern-pin-oak-quercus-ellipsoidalis/
- USDA Forest Service. (n.d.). Northern Pin Oak. Retrieved from https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/tree/queell/all.html
