Source: bing.comContents
1. Description
Quercus Shumardii, also known as the Shumard Oak, is a deciduous tree that is native to the eastern United States. It is widely cultivated for its beautiful autumn foliage and its use in landscaping. The tree can grow up to 100 feet tall and has a broad, spreading crown. The bark is gray-brown and deeply furrowed. The leaves are simple, alternate, and have a lobed margin. The tree produces acorns that are a valuable food source for wildlife.
2. Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Fagaceae |
| Genus | Quercus |
3. Appearance
Quercus Shumardii is a large tree with a broad, spreading crown. The bark is gray-brown and deeply furrowed. The leaves are simple, alternate, and have a lobed margin. The leaves are typically 4-8 inches long and 3-6 inches wide. The top of the leaf is dark green, while the underside is pale green. The leaves turn a beautiful red or orange in the fall. The tree produces acorns that are 1-2 inches long and 1 inch wide.
4. Care Guide
Quercus Shumardii is a relatively easy tree to care for. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun. The tree should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season. Fertilizer can be applied in the spring and fall. The tree is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
5. Common Pests & Diseases
Quercus Shumardii is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. The most common pests are oakworms and scales. The most common diseases are oak wilt and anthracnose. Oakworms can be controlled with insecticides, while scales can be controlled with horticultural oil. Oak wilt and anthracnose can be prevented by keeping the tree healthy and avoiding damage to the bark.
6. Habitat
Quercus Shumardii is native to the eastern United States, from New York to Texas. It is commonly found in bottomlands, along streams, and in upland forests. The tree is also widely cultivated for its use in landscaping.
7. Question and Answer
Q: How long does it take for Quercus Shumardii to grow to its full height?
A: Quercus Shumardii can take up to 50 years to reach its full height.
Q: Can Quercus Shumardii grow in partial shade?
A: While Quercus Shumardii prefers full sun, it can grow in partial shade.
Q: Are the acorns of Quercus Shumardii edible?
A: Yes, the acorns of Quercus Shumardii are edible and are a valuable food source for wildlife.
Q: How often should Quercus Shumardii be fertilized?
A: Quercus Shumardii should be fertilized in the spring and fall.
9. Related Plants
- Quercus alba (White Oak)
- Quercus nigra (Water Oak)
- Quercus phellos (Willow Oak)
- Quercus rubra (Red Oak)
10. References
- “Quercus Shumardii,” Missouri Botanical Garden, accessed March 22, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d270.
- “Shumard Oak,” Texas A&M Forest Service, accessed March 22, 2021, https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/content/article.aspx?id=17120.
- “Quercus Shumardii,” NC State Extension, accessed March 22, 2021, https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/quercus-shumardii/.
