Species

1 other cultivar

‘Long’Regal Prince Oak

tree

Nadler Kindred Spirit Oak

Quercus robur bicolor 'Nadler'

The Story

Plant Bio

This is a hybrid oak (Quercus robur 'Fastigiata' x Quercus bicolor), combining the columnar habit of one parent with the environmental toughness and desirable foliage of the other. Oaks are majestic, long-lived deciduous trees vital to many ecosystems.

Kindred Spirit ('Nadler') is distinguished by its exceptionally narrow, upright, columnar form, making it an ideal tree for tight urban spaces, narrow side yards, or as a formal vertical accent. It has attractive, glossy, dark green leaves with silvery undersides that are resistant to powdery mildew.

Uses & Benefits:

The primary ornamental value of Kindred Spirit Oak is its dramatic, narrow, vertical form. It creates a powerful architectural statement in the landscape, perfect for formal designs, tight spaces, or as a punctuation mark in a mixed border. The two-toned leaves add subtle texture.

Its tight columnar habit makes it an outstanding choice for street plantings, parking lot islands, and for creating tall, narrow privacy screens where a traditional wide-canopied tree would not fit. It is tough and adaptable to urban stresses.

As an oak, it is an ecological powerhouse. Even as a hybrid, it supports a vast number of insect species, particularly caterpillars, which are crucial food for birds. Its acorns, though they may be sparse, provide food for wildlife like squirrels and jays.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

420 inches

Width

72 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Very long-lived tree (100+ years)

Native To

Hybrid of European and North American species

Toxicity

Acorns are toxic to horses and some livestock if eaten in quantity

Bloom period

Mid-spring – Late spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a location in full sun with well-drained soil.
This hybrid is adaptable to a wide range of soil types.
Dig a hole 2-3 times wider than the root ball, but no deeper.
Ensure the root flare at the base of the trunk is visible.
Place the tree in the hole and backfill with the original soil.
Water deeply and regularly for the first two years to establish.

Pro Tip

Despite its columnar form, give its roots ample room to grow; a wide planting area is more important than a deep one.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during periods of extended drought, especially when young.
Provide a wide mulch ring to prevent soil compaction and lawnmower damage.
Stake only if necessary in very windy sites, and remove stakes after one year.
Prune to maintain a single leader when the tree is young.

Don't

Do not plant too deep; keeping the root flare exposed is critical for oaks.
Avoid amending the backfill soil heavily; encourage roots to grow into native soil.
Don't overwater; oaks are drought-tolerant once established.
Avoid pruning large branches, which can create entry points for disease.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Strong vertical accent for narrow spacesFormal screen or avenue plantingDurable street tree for urban environments

Companion Plants

Buxus 'Green Velvet'Hydrangea paniculata 'Limelight'Pennisetum alopecuroides Geranium 'Rozanne'Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Nadler Kindred Spirit Oak questions

What zones can Nadler Kindred Spirit Oak grow in?

Nadler Kindred Spirit 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 Nadler Kindred Spirit Oak deer resistant?

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

When does Nadler Kindred Spirit Oak bloom?

Nadler Kindred Spirit 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 Nadler Kindred Spirit Oak need full sun?

Nadler Kindred Spirit Oak does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Nadler Kindred Spirit Oak drought tolerant?

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