photo of Quercus palustris

Quercus palustris

Pin Oak

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Pin Oak is a medium-sized, deciduous tree of the red oak group. It is monoecious; greenish-yellow flowers bloom on separate male and female...

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Description:

Pin Oak is a medium-sized, deciduous tree of the red oak group. It is monoecious; greenish-yellow flowers bloom on separate male and female catkins in April. Its dark green leaves have five bristle-tipped lobes, and turn deep red in fall. It tolerates poorly-drained soils and some flooding. It may take 15-20 years until the tree matures to bear acorns, which provide food for birds and wildlife. Oaks are host to numerous beneficial insects, which in turn provide food for birds. Pin Oak is a host plant for butterfly and moth larvae (caterpillars), including Gray Hairstreak (Strymon melinus). It provides nesting space, cover, and shelter for wildlife. Use Pin Oak as a shade tree in the yard, park, or natural area, or as a street tree.

Plant Details:

Other Common Names: Swamp Spanish Oak

Plant Type: Tree

New Jersey Native: Yes

Bloom Times: Spring

Bloom Colors: Yellow, Green

Deer Resistance: Some

Attracts Pollinators and Wildlife: Butterflies, Hummingbirds, Birds

Salt Tolerance: Low to None

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

Physiographic Region: All Regions in NJ

Grows in Special Ecoregions: Barrier Island/Coastal

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

Water Needs of Plant

Soil Moisture: Dry, Moist

Drought Tolerance: Low

Size and Growth Rate

Height: 60 - 70 ft

Spread: 25 - 40 ft

Growth Rate: Fast