Quercus Rubra
Source: bing.comContents
Description
Quercus Rubra, commonly known as the Northern Red Oak, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Fagaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found from Nova Scotia to Georgia and as far west as Minnesota and Texas. It is known for its brilliant scarlet fall foliage and rough, deeply furrowed bark.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Fagaceae |
| Genus | Quercus |
Appearance
The Northern Red Oak can grow up to 100 feet tall and has a spread of up to 70 feet. It has a broad, rounded canopy and a deep taproot system. The leaves are alternate, lobed, and have a shiny dark green color with a paler underside. The bark is dark gray and deeply furrowed, creating a scaly texture on the trunk.
Care Guide
The Northern Red Oak prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sand, loam, and clay. It needs full sun exposure and can grow in hardiness zones 3-9. It can withstand periods of drought but benefits from regular watering during dry spells. It does not require fertilization, but a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in early spring to promote growth.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Northern Red Oak is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including oak wilt, anthracnose, and gypsy moth. Oak wilt is a fungal disease that can quickly kill the tree. Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes leaf damage and defoliation. Gypsy moth caterpillars can defoliate entire trees. Regular inspections and treatments can prevent and control these issues.
Habitat
The Northern Red Oak can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and urban areas. It prefers well-drained soils but can grow in wet soils as well. It is commonly used in landscaping and as a shade tree in parks and residential areas.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the significance of the Northern Red Oak in Native American culture?
A: The Northern Red Oak was revered by Native Americans for its strength and longevity. It was used in ceremonies and for making tools and canoes.
Q: What is the lifespan of a Northern Red Oak?
A: The Northern Red Oak can live up to 500 years in ideal conditions.
Q: Can the Northern Red Oak be grown in containers?
A: No, the Northern Red Oak requires a deep taproot system and is not suitable for container planting.
Q: Is the Northern Red Oak a good choice for a street tree?
A: Yes, the Northern Red Oak is a hardy and resilient tree that can withstand urban environments and pollution.
Related Plants
- Quercus Alba (White Oak)
- Quercus Coccinea (Scarlet Oak)
- Quercus Palustris (Pin Oak)
- Quercus Phellos (Willow Oak)
References
- “Quercus Rubra.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a611.
- “Quercus Rubra.” The Morton Arboretum, www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/northern-red-oak.
- “Northern Red Oak.” Arbor Day Foundation, www.arborday.org/trees/treeGuide/TreeDetail.cfm?ItemID=874.
