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Northern red oak

Quercus rubra | Family: Fagaceae

submission: Chrissy McIntire

Identification:

Leaves—

sharp edges, medium sized, comes in red, yellow and green color, typical maple shape

Twigs—

long, not too thin, dull brown color

Flowers—

small green colored clusters.

Fruit—

small smooth acorns

Bark—

not too rough, dull brown color

Hover over one of the descriptions to see an example.

picture of leaves picture of bark picture of twigs picture of fruit picture of flowers

 

Natural History:

Lifespan—

Between 200–400 years

General description—

This moderately fast-growing tree was introduced to Europe in 1724. This tree is sensitive to wildfires and certain insects and oak wilt disease. This tree can grow in both warm and cool soil.

Natural distribution and habitat—

Native to North America and they are usually found on the east coast.

Conservation status—

It is being preserved by being planted in both North America and Europe.

Uses—

Used as both a shade tree and ornamental tree. Also used in the lumber industry.

References:

  1. Sander, Ivan L. “Northern Red Oak.” srs.fs.usda.gov, USDA Forest Service, https://www.srs.fs.usda.gov/pubs/misc/ag_654/volume_2/quercus/rubra.htm.
  2. “Northern Red Oak,” canadiantreetours.org, Canadian Tree Tours, http://canadiantreetours.org/species-pages/Northern_red_oak.html
  3. Imbriani, Kathy. “Life Expectancy of a Red Oak tree.” Sfgate.com, SFGATE, http://homeguides.sfgate.com/life-expectancy-red-oak-tree-74474.html
  4. “Northern Red Oak.” Mdc.mo.gov, Missouri department of conservation, https://nature.mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/northern-red-oak

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