Red Oak

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eaf Characteristics

* broad, flat
* simple
* pinnately lobed
* bristle tips
* not deeply lobed
* thin leaves, lobes narrow toward tip

Fruit Characteristics

* acorn
* cup without fringe, without long stalk
* acorn no longer than 1"
* scales not swollen, mostly flat
* shallow cup
* acorn oblong

Red OaK
(Northern Red Oak)
Quercus rubra

The bark darkens and roughens near the base of older trees, while becoming fissured with broad, grayish ridges on the upper trunk. The tree grows on rich, well-drained soils. It occurs commonly throughout most of Ohio, except in poorly-drained or swampy areas. The wood is similar to that of the White Oak, and although more porous and less resistant to decay, is used extensively used in construction and interior work. The Red Oak grows more rapidly than most oaks and is useful for planting in residential areas. The acorns are not as tasty as those of the White Oak, but many kinds of wildlife feed on them.


Red Oak Tree
Tree Size
height 50' - 70'
diameter 1' - 3'

Contact Information

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& The Ohio Historical Society (OHS)