Q

Quercus Coccinea

Quercus CoccineaSource: bing.com

Description

Quercus Coccinea, commonly known as the red oak, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Fagaceae family. It can grow up to 80 feet tall and 50 feet wide, and is known for its beautiful red foliage in the fall. The tree produces acorns that are a food source for wildlife. It is native to North America, and can be found in the eastern United States, from Maine to Georgia and west to Texas.

Taxonomic Information

Domain Eukaryota
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Spermatophyta
Class Magnoliopsida
Order Fagales
Family Fagaceae
Genus Quercus

Appearance

The leaves of Quercus Coccinea are simple, alternate, and lobed, with a glossy green color in the summer and a deep red color in the fall. The bark is dark gray and scaly, and the tree produces acorns that are about 1 inch long and have a cap that covers a quarter of the nut. The tree has a broad, spreading crown and a strong trunk. It is a beautiful addition to any landscape, especially in the fall when the leaves turn red.

Care Guide

Quercus Coccinea is a relatively low-maintenance tree. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, but can tolerate some shade. It is drought-tolerant once established, but should be watered regularly during its first year. Fertilization is not necessary, but can be done in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer. The tree is hardy in zones 4-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Quercus Coccinea is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including oak wilt, cankers, and borers. Oak wilt is a fungal disease that can kill the tree within a few years. Cankers are caused by fungi or bacteria and can cause dieback of branches. Borers are insects that bore into the trunk and branches of the tree, causing damage. To prevent these issues, it is important to keep the tree healthy by providing proper care and promptly treating any issues that arise.

Habitat

Quercus Coccinea is native to North America and can be found in the eastern United States, from Maine to Georgia and west to Texas. It grows in a variety of habitats, including upland forests, bottomlands, and oak-hickory forests. The tree provides habitat and food for many species of wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and deer.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Quercus Coccinea be used as a shade tree?

A: Yes, Quercus Coccinea can be used as a shade tree due to its large size and spreading crown.

Q: How often should Quercus Coccinea be watered?

A: Quercus Coccinea should be watered regularly during its first year, but is drought-tolerant once established.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Quercus Coccinea?

A: Quercus Coccinea is hardy in zones 4-8.

Q: What pests and diseases are commonly found on Quercus Coccinea?

A: Quercus Coccinea is susceptible to oak wilt, cankers, and borers.

Related Plants

  • Quercus alba (white oak)
  • Quercus rubra (northern red oak)
  • Quercus palustris (pin oak)
  • Quercus velutina (black oak)

References

  • “Quercus Coccinea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a860.
  • “Quercus Coccinea.” North Carolina State University Extension, content.ces.ncsu.edu/quercus-coccinea.
  • “Red Oak.” Arbor Day Foundation, www.arborday.org/trees/treeguide/TreeDetail.cfm?ItemID=914.

Related Articles

Back to top button
close
close