Quercus velutina

Common Names

Black Oak, Yellow Oak, Smoothbark Oak, Quercitron Oak, Yellowbark Oak, Quercitron, Eastern Black Oak

Summary

Black Oak is a large, deciduous tree native to eastern North America with a broad, open crown and a typical height of 50–60 ft. Its nearly black, deeply furrowed bark pairs with leathery, glossy green leaves that have 5–7 bristle-tipped lobes and a pale underside; fall color ranges from yellow to red-brown, and small acorns measuring 1/2–3/4 in long mature in two years, produced in crops every 2–3 years; flowers are inconspicuous greenish-yellow catkins.

Preferring full sun and well-drained acidic soils, it tolerates dry conditions and has a deep taproot that makes transplanting difficult; maintenance is low, with pruning best done in the dormant season to reduce oak wilt risk. In landscapes, it serves as a shade tree for large areas and provides wildlife habitat; wood is durable and used for furniture and flooring; acorns support various wildlife.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

50-80 ft

Spread

50-60 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 3-9

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full sun, with partial sun and partial shade also acceptable.

Soil Type

Moist, well-drained, acidic soil

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil

Soil pH

Slightly acidic to neutral; around pH 6.5.

Bloom Color

Insignificant

Bloom Time

Spring (April–May)

Foliage Color

Dark green foliage, with a darker upper surface and a paler lower surface.

Fall Foliage Color

Yellow, Red, Brown, Orange

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Moderate; ~1.5–2 feet per year when young; slows with age.

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Layering, Grafting

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees, butterflies, and birds