Red Oak (Northern Red Oak)
Quercus rubra · Fagaceae (Beech and Oak family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous leaf
Shape
Lobed leaf with typically 7-11 lobes ending in bristle-tipped points
Margin
Serrate with bristle-tipped lobes and deep sinuses
Arrangement
Alternate arrangement along the twig
Venation
Pinnate venation with a prominent central midrib and primary veins extending out into each lobe.
Key Features
Bristle-tipped leaf lobes, shallow to moderately deep sinuses, dull dark green upper surface, and bark with smooth, shiny strips in the furrows of mature trunks.
Description
The Northern Red Oak is a majestic, fast-growing deciduous tree known for its impressive size, straight trunk, and rounded crown. Its bark is dark gray or brown with broad, flat-topped ridges. In spring, it produces inconspicuous catkins, followed in autumn by large, oblong acorns with a flat, saucer-like cap. The foliage transforms into a striking deep red color before dropping for the winter.
Habitat
Thrives in rich, moist, well-draining soils of deciduous forests, often found along slopes, ridges, and valleys. Prefers full sun to partial shade.
Native Range
Native to eastern and central North America, ranging from Nova Scotia west to Ontario and Minnesota, and south to Georgia and Oklahoma. Widely planted as a shade tree in temperate regions worldwide.