Species

Quercus palustrisPin Oak

1 other cultivar

‘Green Pillar’Green Pillar Pin Oak

treeN. America Native

Pacific Brilliance Pin Oak

Quercus palustris 'Pacific Brilliance'

The Story

Plant Bio

Quercus palustris, or Pin Oak, is a fast-growing deciduous tree native to North America, known for its pyramidal shape and distinctive branching pattern. It thrives in acidic, moist soils and provides dense summer shade.

'Pacific Brilliance' is a superior cultivar selected for its reliably brilliant scarlet-red fall color that persists late into the season, even in milder climates. It also features a more upright branching habit than the species.

Uses & Benefits:

'Pacific Brilliance' is a premier shade tree, offering a classic pyramidal form, glossy summer foliage, and one of the most vibrant and long-lasting red fall displays available. Its structure provides winter interest.

As a fast-growing tree, it quickly provides substantial shade, which can help reduce summer cooling costs. It is also a durable choice for urban settings like parks and wide boulevards where soil is acidic.

Pin oaks are high-value wildlife trees. They host hundreds of species of caterpillars, which are a crucial food source for nesting birds. The acorns are eaten by woodpeckers, jays, squirrels, and other mammals.

SpeciesQuercus palustrisPin Oak

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

720 inches

Width

480 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Medium to wet

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

80-120 years

Native To

Eastern and Central North America

Toxicity

Acorns are toxic to horses and cattle if ingested in quantity.

Bloom period

Mid-spring – Late spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a location with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.
Dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball.
Position the tree so the top of the root ball is level with the ground.
Backfill the hole with the original soil, watering to settle.
Water deeply and regularly during the first few years to establish roots.
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch to conserve moisture and reduce weeds.

Pro Tip

Avoid planting in high pH soils to prevent chlorosis (yellowing leaves); amend with sulfur or iron sulfate if necessary.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent water, especially during dry spells.
Perform a soil test to ensure pH is acidic to neutral.
Prune in late winter to maintain a strong structure.
Allow lower, drooping branches to remain for the classic pin oak look.

Don't

Do not plant in alkaline (high pH) soils.
Avoid piling mulch against the trunk, which can cause rot.
Don't prune heavily in summer, as this can stress the tree.
Avoid wounding the bark with mowers or string trimmers.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Stunning specimen shade treeReliable street or park treeWoodland garden accent for fall color

Companion Plants

Amelanchier canadensis Hydrangea quercifolia Carex pensylvanica Cornus florida Viburnum dentatum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Pacific Brilliance Pin Oak questions

What zones can Pacific Brilliance Pin Oak grow in?

Pacific Brilliance Pin Oak is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Pacific Brilliance Pin Oak deer resistant?

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

When does Pacific Brilliance Pin Oak bloom?

Pacific Brilliance Pin 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 Pacific Brilliance Pin Oak need full sun?

Pacific Brilliance Pin Oak does best in full sun (6+ hours).