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Description
Quercus Pumila, commonly known as the dwarf oak, is a small shrub-like oak tree that is native to North America. It is a slow-growing, deciduous tree that can reach heights of up to 30 feet but is typically much smaller. The leaves of Quercus Pumila are small, about 1-3 inches long, and have a dark green glossy appearance. The tree produces small acorns that are about 1/2 inch long and can be used as a food source for wildlife.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukarya |
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Spermatophyta |
Class | Magnoliopsida |
Order | Fagales |
Family | Fagaceae |
Genus | Quercus |
Appearance
Quercus Pumila has a unique appearance due to its small size and shrub-like growth habit. The tree has a twisted and gnarled trunk with a rough, grayish-brown bark. The leaves of Quercus Pumila are small, oval-shaped, and have a glossy appearance. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in the spring that give way to small acorns in the fall. The acorns are about 1/2 inch long and have a rounded shape.
Care Guide
Quercus Pumila is a relatively low-maintenance tree that requires minimal care once established. Here are some care tips to help your Quercus Pumila thrive:- Water: Quercus Pumila prefers well-drained soil but can tolerate some moisture. Water your tree deeply once a week, especially during the first year after planting.- Fertilization: Quercus Pumila does not require regular fertilization but can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer applied in the spring.- Soil: Quercus Pumila prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil but can tolerate a wide range of soil types.- Sunlight: Quercus Pumila prefers full sun to partial shade but can tolerate some shade.- Hardiness Zones: Quercus Pumila is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Quercus Pumila is generally resistant to pests and diseases but can be susceptible to oak wilt and anthracnose. Oak wilt is a fungal disease that causes the tree to wilt and die, while anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves. To prevent these diseases, avoid wounding the tree and keep it healthy with regular watering and fertilization.
Habitat
Quercus Pumila is native to North America and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, forests, and savannas. The tree prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. It is also tolerant of drought and can survive in areas with low precipitation.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the typical height of Quercus Pumila?
A: Quercus Pumila can reach heights of up to 30 feet but is typically much smaller.
Q: What are the leaves of Quercus Pumila like?
A: The leaves of Quercus Pumila are small, about 1-3 inches long, and have a dark green glossy appearance.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Quercus Pumila?
A: Quercus Pumila is generally resistant to pests and diseases but can be susceptible to oak wilt and anthracnose.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Quercus Pumila?
A: Quercus Pumila is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Related Plants
– Quercus Alba (White Oak)- Quercus Rubra (Red Oak)- Quercus Palustris (Pin Oak)- Quercus Coccinea (Scarlet Oak)
References
– Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of woody landscape plants: Their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation, and uses. Stipes Pub Llc.- Gilman, E. F. (1997). Trees for urban and suburban landscapes. Delmar Publishers.- USDA Plants Database. (2021). Quercus pumila Walter. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=QUPU.