QUERCUS MACROCARPA / BURR OAK

QUERCUS MACROCARPA / BUR OAK

A Majestic Native Oak with Broad Canopy and Wildlife Value

Quercus macrocarpa, commonly known as Bur Oak, is a large native deciduous tree admired for its massive, spreading canopy, deeply lobed leaves, and distinctive large acorns. Highly adaptable and drought-tolerant once established, Bur Oak thrives in full sun with well-drained soils, making it an excellent choice for parks, naturalized landscapes, and large open properties. Its impressive stature and ecological benefits make it a keystone species in native ecosystems.

Why Choose Bur Oak?

Iconic Form: Broad, rounded crown with deeply lobed leaves.
Drought-Tolerant & Hardy: Thrives in a wide range of soil types and climates.
Wildlife Friendly: Provides acorns for birds and mammals; supports insects and pollinators.
Long-Lived & Durable: Can live for centuries, providing lasting shade and structure.

Key Features:

Foliage Color: Dark green leaves with deep lobes; golden-brown fall color.
Bark Interest: Thick, deeply ridged bark with gray-brown texture.
Fruit: Large acorns with fringed caps.
Height and Spread: Typically grows 70–100 feet tall and 60–80 feet wide.
Hardiness: Hardy to USDA Zones 3–8.
Sunlight: Prefers full sun.
Soil Requirements: Well-drained soils; tolerates clay, loam, and dry sites.

Specifications:

Plant Size: 70–100 feet tall, 60–80 feet wide.
Growth Habit: Upright deciduous tree with broad, spreading crown.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 3–8.
Flowering/Fruiting: Spring catkins; acorns mature in fall.
Fall Interest: Golden-brown foliage.

Ideal Uses:

Shade & Specimen Trees: Perfect for large landscapes, parks, and open properties.
Wildlife & Native Plantings: Supports a wide variety of birds, mammals, and insects.
Restoration & Conservation Projects: Excellent for ecological plantings.
Legacy Trees: Ideal for long-term planting in naturalized landscapes.

Bur Oak is a stately and ecologically valuable native tree. Its broad form, drought tolerance, and wildlife benefits make it an outstanding choice for large-scale landscapes, restoration projects, and naturalized settings.