Quercus coccinea Scarlet Oak

FEATURES:
Quercus coccinea, commonly known as Scarlet Oak, is a deciduous tree native to the eastern United States. It is prized for its brilliant scarlet fall foliage and attractive bark. It has a strong, deep taproot that makes it more drought-tolerant than other oak species.

HEIGHT & WIDTH:
Height of 20 to 25 metres and a spread of 12 to 15 metres.

SHAPE:
Broadly pyramidal to rounded crown with sturdy, spreading branches.

FOLIAGE:
Scarlet Oak has lobed leaves that are 10 to 20 cm long and 8 to 15 cm wide. The leaves are dark green and glossy in the summer, turning a brilliant scarlet in the fall.

FLOWERS:
Scarlet Oak is monoecious, meaning it has separate male and female flowers on the same tree. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the spring that are wind-pollinated. The flowers are followed by acorns that are a valuable food source for wildlife.

TREE CARE:
It is adaptable to a wide range of soil types but prefers well-drained, acidic soil. The tree requires full sun exposure for optimal growth and fall color. It is relatively drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during dry periods. Pruning is not usually necessary but can be done in late winter or early spring to remove dead or diseased branches.