treeN. America Native

Swamp Chestnut Oak

Name: Swamp Chestnut Oak
Brand: Quercus
Availability: InStock

Quercus michauxii

$129.95

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

840 inches

Width

720 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium to Wet

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Very long-lived tree (300+ years)

Native To

Southeastern United States

Toxicity

Acorns toxic to horses and cattle if eaten in quantity

The Story

Plant Bio

Quercus michauxii is a large, majestic deciduous tree in the white oak group, native to bottomlands and wetlands of the southeastern United States. It is known for its excellent timber and large, sweet acorns. The leaves are large, unlobed, and coarsely toothed, resembling those of a chestnut tree, hence the common name. Its acorns are among the largest of any native oak and are a preferred food for wildlife.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

A magnificent, long-lived shade tree with a stately, rounded crown and handsome, chestnut-like leaves that turn a rich red or brown in fall. The light gray, scaly bark adds winter interest.

Provides dense, cooling shade for large properties, parks, and public spaces. The wood is strong, heavy, and durable, historically used for barrels, furniture, and flooring.

As a native oak, it is a keystone species, supporting hundreds of species of insects, particularly moth and butterfly larvae. The large, sweet acorns are a vital food source for deer, bears, turkeys, squirrels, and other wildlife.

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Where to Buy

Garden Goods Direct

In Stock$129.95

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a large, open site in full sun.
Prefers moist, rich, acidic soils but is adaptable.
Dig a hole two to three times the width of the root ball.
Plant the tree so the root flare is visible at the soil line.
Backfill with the original soil, breaking up any large clumps.
Water deeply and consistently for the first few years.

Pro Tip

Give this tree plenty of space to grow to its full, magnificent size; not suitable for small properties.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide ample space for its large mature size.
Water during prolonged droughts, especially when young.
Mulch to conserve soil moisture and protect the root zone.
Prune only when dormant to remove dead or crossing branches.

Don't

Do not plant in a small yard or near structures.
Avoid compacting the soil over the root zone with vehicles or foot traffic.
Do not over-prune or top the tree.
Do not plant in dry, sandy, or highly alkaline soils.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Stately shade tree for large landscapesWildlife habitat restoration treeSpecimen for parks and open areas

Companion Plants

Nyssa sylvatica Liquidambar styraciflua Itea virginica Asimina triloba Lindera benzoin

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Swamp Chestnut Oak questions

What zones can Swamp Chestnut Oak grow in?

Swamp Chestnut Oak is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Swamp Chestnut Oak deer resistant?

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

When does Swamp Chestnut Oak bloom?

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

Does Swamp Chestnut Oak need full sun?

Swamp Chestnut Oak does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.