treeN. America Native

White Oak

Name: White Oak
Brand: Quercus
Availability: InStock

Quercus alba

$18.50

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

840 inches

Width

840 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to medium

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

200-300+ years

Native To

Eastern and Central North America

Toxicity

Acorns are toxic to horses and cattle if eaten in large amounts.

The Story

Plant Bio

Quercus alba is a majestic, long-lived deciduous tree native to eastern North America, renowned for its massive trunk, wide-spreading branches, and immense ecological value. It is a slow-growing but incredibly durable and stately tree. As a keystone species, the White Oak supports more life than any other native tree, hosting hundreds of species of caterpillars. Its acorns are a vital food source for wildlife, and its light ashy-gray bark is distinctive.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

The White Oak is the epitome of a stately landscape tree, with a magnificent, broad-rounded crown and rugged, light gray bark that provides immense character and year-round beauty. Its sheer scale commands attention.

Its strong, durable wood is highly valued for furniture, flooring, and barrel making (cooperage). As a landscape tree, it provides dense, cooling shade over a vast area.

It is a keystone species in its native ecosystem, supporting over 500 species of butterflies and moths. Its acorns are a critical food source for dozens of species of birds and mammals, including deer, bear, and turkey.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a site in full sun with deep, acidic, well-drained soil.
Provide ample space, at least 40 feet from buildings or other trees.
Dig a hole three times the width of the root ball but no deeper.
Set the tree so its root flare is slightly above the surrounding grade.
Backfill with native soil and water thoroughly to eliminate air pockets.
Apply mulch over the root zone, but keep it away from the trunk.

Pro Tip

Plant it for the future. Give it ample space and protect its root zone from compaction for a healthy, long life.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Protect the area over the root system from any soil compaction.
Water deeply during extended droughts, especially when young.
Leave fallen leaves under the tree to decompose and enrich the soil.

Don't

Never prune during the growing season (April-October) to prevent oak wilt.
Do not plant in alkaline or poorly drained soils.
Avoid changing the soil grade or adding fill dirt over the root zone.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Majestic legacy tree for large propertiesKeystone species for ecological restorationStately shade tree for parks and open spaces

Companion Plants

Cercis canadensis Cornus florida Lindera benzoin Carex pensylvanica Asarum canadense

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

White Oak questions

What zones can White Oak grow in?

White Oak is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is White Oak deer resistant?

Yes — White Oak is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does White Oak bloom?

White Oak typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does White Oak need full sun?

White Oak does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is White Oak drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), White Oak handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.