Species overcup oak

overcup oak

Quercus lyrata

Overcup Oak (Quercus lyrata) is a species of white oak native to the wetland areas of the south-central United States, ranging from Texas through Missouri and Arkansas. This long-lived tree grows to heights of 30-60 feet, often forming a dense canopy. Its bark is dark gray and wide-ridged, and its branches twist in a spiral. Its long, narrow leaves are deeply lobed and dark green in the summer, turning yellowish-brown or purple in the fall. Its distinct fruits are acorns with tough, thick cups that often cover more than half of the nut. Overcup Oak is tolerant of drought and flooding, making it an excellent choice for restoration and wildlife habitat projects.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Seed Propagation,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Layering Propagation,Budding

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 9

Flowers:

Yellow catkins (male); Red spikes (female) Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Fruits:

brown,black Fruits Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Overcup Oak (Quercus lyrata) should be watered deeply once a week in the summer. Aim to water the roots directly, rather than wetting the leaves, and ensure that the soil remains moist but not soggy. During winter, water the root system every 2 to 3 weeks. If you are unsure about how much water the plant needs every week, test it by using a finger and stick it into the soil and feel if the soil is dry or moist. Adjust the amount of water accordingly. Always water early in the day, so that there is enough time for the soil to dry before nightfall.

sunlight

Overcup oak trees prefer full sun, although some shade is tolerated. These trees can grow in most soil conditions but prefer more moist, loamy soils, and they tend to be more drought tolerant in shaded environments. Generally, they should receive between 6 and 8 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimum health. In the winter months, sunlight should be reduced to around 4 hours a day.

pruning

Overcup Oak (Quercus lyrata) benefits from minimal pruning. Pruning should be done in late winter, just before growth begins. Always use pruning shears to ensure clean cuts. Start by removing any dead, diseased, or damaged growth, as well as branches that rub together. You can also prune for shape and form. Open up the center of the tree to allow more light and air penetration. Remove branches that are too close to windows or sidewalks. Finally, thin out overcrowded branches to improve air circulation. Be sure not to prune too much, as too much pruning can weaken the tree.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Quercus lyrata typically begins in late summer or early fall, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

Overcup oak typically starts flowering in April.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Quercus lyrata typically begins in late summer or early fall, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map