tree

Scarlet Oak

Quercus coccinea

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

720 inches

Width

600 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Dry to medium

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Very long-lived, 150+ years

Native To

Eastern and Central United States

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested (acorns to some animals)

The Story

Plant Bio

Quercus coccinea is a large, fast-growing deciduous oak tree native to the eastern United States, belonging to the red oak group. It is highly prized for its brilliant, reliable scarlet-red fall color and its deeply lobed, glossy green leaves. Its common name is well-deserved, as it produces one of the most vibrant and consistent red fall displays of any oak. The tree often retains its dead, brown leaves through the winter (a trait called marcescence), providing texture and cover for birds.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

The Scarlet Oak is a majestic landscape tree, primarily grown for its spectacular autumn foliage, which turns a brilliant, fiery scarlet red. Its deeply cut, glossy leaves provide an elegant texture during the summer. The open, rounded crown of a mature tree casts pleasant shade, and its strong branching structure provides a handsome winter silhouette.

As a large, fast-growing tree, it is an excellent choice for providing shade and a sense of scale in large residential properties, parks, and campuses. The wood is hard and strong, used commercially for flooring, furniture, and construction, similar to other red oaks.

Scarlet Oak is an ecological powerhouse. It serves as a host plant for hundreds of species of Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths), providing a critical food source for birds. Its acorns are a vital food for wildlife, including squirrels, blue jays, deer, and bears. It provides shelter and nesting sites for numerous birds and mammals.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a site in full sun with acidic, sandy or loamy, well-drained soil.
Dig a hole three times the width of the root ball but no deeper.
Carefully place the tree, making sure the root flare is at or above soil level.
Backfill with the native soil, breaking up any large clumps.
Water thoroughly to eliminate air pockets and settle the soil.
Apply a 3-inch layer of mulch, keeping it away from the trunk.

Pro Tip

Ensure your soil is acidic before planting; chlorosis (yellowing leaves) is a common problem in alkaline soils and is difficult to correct.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide deep, infrequent waterings during establishment and droughts.
Perform a soil pH test before planting to confirm acidity.
Prune only when fully dormant to prevent oak wilt infection.
Allow ample space for its large mature size.

Don't

Do not plant in alkaline (high pH) or poorly drained soils.
Avoid wounding the bark with mowers or string trimmers.
Never top the tree or make large pruning cuts during the growing season.
Don't fertilize unless a soil test indicates a specific deficiency.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Magnificent large shade tree for parks and large propertiesStriking specimen tree for brilliant fall colorKey component in native woodland and restoration plantings

Companion Plants

Amelanchier canadensis Vaccinium corymbosum Kalmia latifolia Carex pensylvanica Schizachyrium scoparium

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Scarlet Oak questions

What zones can Scarlet Oak grow in?

Scarlet 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 Scarlet Oak deer resistant?

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

When does Scarlet Oak bloom?

Scarlet 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 Scarlet Oak need full sun?

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

Is Scarlet Oak drought tolerant?

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