Quercus michauxii
Swamp Chestnut Oak
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...
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