
About this Red Oak
This beautiful oak is a native to North America, and is known for its stunning red autumn leaves. In native forests it can grow up to an incredible 43m and in the UK it is mainly grown for ornamental purposes.
Despite often being thought of as an English species, only two of more than 450 species of oak are native to Britain. Quercus rubra, commonly known as the red oak, is one of many oaks originating from America.
Named for its eye-catching leaves, which in autumn turn a rich red or brown, Quercus rubrahas been in cultivation in the UK since 1724. Although here it is largely planted for ornamental reasons, this tree is highly valued in its native country for the excellent timber it produces, and is one of the most important oaks for timber production in North America. It is used extensively in flooring, veneers and furniture but as it is prone to moisture infiltration it is unsuitable for outdoor uses such as boatbuilding.
Its flowers emerge in late spring, usually May, with the male flowers in the shape of slender yellow catkins and the female flowers tiny and barely noticeable. Unlike our native oaks, the acorns of the Quercus rubra take two years to ripen and are only small and partially formed in their first year. They are an important food source for wildlife, including deer, squirrels and birds.
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