Northern Red Oak
Quercus rubra · Fagaceae (Beech and Oak family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous leaf
Shape
Oblovate to oblong, pinnately lobed with 7 to 11 lobes featuring bristle-tipped teeth
Margin
Lobed with bristle-tipped teeth along the margins
Arrangement
Alternate arrangement along the twig
Venation
Pinnate venation with a prominent central midrib and primary veins extending out to the bristle tips of each lobe
Key Features
Lobes with distinct bristle tips, dull green upper surface, shallow to moderately deep sinuses between lobes, and stout acorns with a flat, saucer-like cap
Description
The Northern Red Oak is a majestic, fast-growing deciduous tree known for its strong straight trunk, dark brown ridged bark, and impressive crown. In autumn, its foliage puts on a splendid display of rich reds and browns before dropping. It produces large, stout acorns that are a crucial food source for local wildlife.
Habitat
Thrives in well-drained loamy or sandy soils, often found in mixed deciduous forests, slopes, and ridges across temperate zones
Native Range
Native to eastern and central North America, ranging from Nova Scotia south to Georgia, and west to Oklahoma and Minnesota; widely planted as an ornamental shade tree