photo of Quercus michauxii

Quercus michauxii

Swamp Chestnut Oak

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Swamp Chestnut Oak is a medium to large, deciduous tree of the white oak group. It is monoecious; yellow male catkins and red female flowers bloom...

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Description:

Swamp Chestnut Oak is a medium to large, deciduous tree of the white oak group. It is monoecious; yellow male catkins and red female flowers bloom separately on the same tree in April-May. It has chestnut-like, oblong, toothed leaves, which are shiny and green above and gray and hairy underneath. Fall foliage is dark red. This tree performs best in full sun, but tolerates some shade when young. It tolerates occasional wet soils; however, continuously wet soils cause root rot. Swamp Chestnut Oak is very tolerant of urban conditions and has medium to high wind resistance. It may take 20-25 years for the tree to mature and bear acorns. When present, acorns ripen in September-October and provide food for birds and wildlife. Oaks are host to numerous beneficial insects, which in turn provide food for birds. Swamp Chestnut Oak provides nesting space, cover, and shelter for wildlife. Use it as a street tree or shade tree in your yard, neighborhood park, or in natural areas.

Plant Details:

Other Common Names: Basket Oak

Plant Type: Tree

New Jersey Native: Yes

Bloom Times: Spring, Late Spring to Early Summer

Bloom Colors: Red, Yellow

Deer Resistance: None

Attracts Pollinators and Wildlife: Birds

Salt Tolerance: Low to None

Hardiness Zone: 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b

Physiographic Region: Coastal Plain - CP

Soil Characteristics

Soil Type: Loam, Organic, Clay

Soil Moisture: Dry, Moist

Soil pH: Acidic, Slightly Acidic

Light Needs of Plant

Optimal Light: Full Sun

Light Range: Full Sun, Partial Shade

Water Needs of Plant

Soil Moisture: Dry, Moist

Drought Tolerance: Low

Size and Growth Rate

Height: 40 - 60 ft

Spread: 30 - 50 ft

Growth Rate: Medium