Species

tree

Clemons Kindred Spirit Oak

The Story

Plant Bio

Quercus robur, the English Oak, is a large, majestic deciduous tree known for its broad, spreading crown and lobed leaves. It is a long-lived species that provides significant ecological value as a keystone species.

'Clemons' (Kindred Spirit) is a hybrid selection with a very narrow, columnar habit, making it ideal for tight spaces. Its dark green foliage has a silvery underside and shows excellent resistance to powdery mildew.

Uses & Benefits:

Its primary ornamental value is its tight, columnar form, which provides a strong vertical element in the landscape. It is perfect for formal gardens, narrow side yards, or as a dramatic specimen where space is limited.

It can be used to create a tall, narrow screen or hedge for privacy without taking up a large footprint. Its dense structure also makes it an effective windbreak when planted in a row.

Like all oaks, it is a keystone species, supporting hundreds of species of insects, particularly moth and butterfly larvae. These insects, in turn, provide a crucial food source for birds and other wildlife.

SpeciesQuercus roburEnglish Oak

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

420 inches

Width

78 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Low to medium

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Over 100 years

Native To

Europe, Western Asia (species)

Toxicity

Acorns are toxic to horses, cattle, and dogs if eaten in quantity.

Bloom period

Mid-spring – Late spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a location in full sun with well-drained soil.
Dig a planting hole twice as wide as the root ball.
Set the tree so the top of the root ball is level with the soil.
Backfill the hole with the original soil and water thoroughly.
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots.
Apply a layer of mulch to conserve moisture, avoiding the trunk.

Pro Tip

Plant in a location with good air circulation to take full advantage of its excellent powdery mildew resistance.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide full sun for the best growth and form.
Water deeply but infrequently once established to encourage deep roots.
Allow ample space for its eventual height, despite its narrow width.
Rake up fallen leaves and acorns to maintain a tidy appearance.

Don't

Do not plant in poorly drained or constantly wet soils.
Avoid compacting the soil over the root zone with heavy equipment.
Do not over-prune; its natural form requires little shaping.
Avoid planting near structures where falling acorns could be a nuisance.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Strong vertical accent in narrow spacesFormal allee or tall, narrow screenArchitectural specimen for small gardens or courtyards

Companion Plants

Buxus sempervirens Hydrangea paniculata Hosta sieboldiana 'Elegans'Pennisetum alopecuroides Geranium 'Rozanne'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Clemons Kindred Spirit Oak questions

What zones can Clemons Kindred Spirit Oak grow in?

Clemons 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 Clemons Kindred Spirit Oak deer resistant?

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

When does Clemons Kindred Spirit Oak bloom?

Clemons 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 Clemons Kindred Spirit Oak need full sun?

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

Is Clemons Kindred Spirit Oak drought tolerant?

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