Oak, ScarletQuercus coccinea
Fast-growing and tolerates a wide range of soils. Leaves are glossy deep green on top, paler green below, and scarlet in fall. Crown is open and rounded, providing light shade. Grows to 60' to 80', 40'-50' spread. (zones 4-9)
Zones 4 - 9
The Scarlet Oak can be expected to grow in the zones shown in color in the arborday.org zone map. (see map below)
Ornamental Tree
The Scarlet Oak falls into the following type(s): Ornamental Trees, Shade Trees
60' - 80' High
The Scarlet Oak grows to be 60' - 80' feet in height.
40' - 50' Spread
The Scarlet Oak has a spread of about 40' - 50' at full maturity.
Medium Growth
This tree grows at a medium growth rate. [More about this.]
Full Sun
This oak does well in full sun.
Various Soils
Tolerates a wide range of soils except alkaline.
Rounded Shape
This oak has rounded shape.
More Info
The Scarlet Oak can be expected to grow in the zones shown on this map.
Attributes:
The Scarlet Oak tree is well named. Its early spring foliage is often red, its inner bark is reddish, and in autumn the leaves are brilliant red or scarlet. The acorns of this tree are a favorite food for gray squirrels, chipmunks, mice and birds, especially blue jays. It is a common tree in the Appalachian Mountains but has become a popular landscape tree throughout the eastern and central United States.
Description:
Fast-growing and tolerates a wide range of soils. Leaves are glossy deep green on top, paler green below, and scarlet in fall. Crown is open and rounded, providing light shade. Grows to 60' to 80', 40'-50' spread. (zones 4-9)
Wildlife Value:
Scarlet oak acorns are an important food source for many large songbirds, wild turkeys, grouse, squirrels, and whitetail deer.
History/Lore/Use:
The native range of the Scarlet Oak tree extends from Maine to Florida and west to Missouri. The first scientific observations of this tree were made in 1691. The brilliant red leaf color extends well into winter, making an excellent splash of color against a white snow background.
Moisture:
Normal moisture preferred, but with some drought tolerance.
Leaves:
This trees leaves are 4 to 7 inches long with 7 to 9 (rarely) narrow, bristle-tipped lobes separated by deep sinuses. Green in summer with brilliant red or scarlet color in autumn.
Flower Color:
Brown, faded flower color. Not noteworthy.
Bloom Time:
April-May.
Fruit Description:
The fruit is round, 1 inch long, attractive to wildlife.