Species pin oak
lime-green foliage with light-brown branches

pin oak

Quercus palustris

Pin oak (Quercus palustris) is a medium-sized tree native to North America. With a tall, columnar shape and dark green leaves, it is a popular ornamental species. Its bark is smooth and gray, and its leaves are deeply cut, resembling a hand with outstretched fingers when viewed from below. In the fall, leaves turn a brilliant golden-orange before dropping off. Pin oak is hardy and tolerant of a wide range of soils, and its strong, deep root system makes it a great windbreak. It thrives best in wet soils and full sun. Pin oak is a great choice for urban landscapes or natural tree buffets.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Greenwood Cuttings,Grafting Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

Yellowish-green Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun

Soil:

Acidic, Bog, Well-drained

Fruits:

brown Fruits In Autumn Ready In

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Moderate

watering

Pin oaks should be watered deeply once a week during dry spells and drought. During the growing season, when temperatures are warmer, water your pin oak tree 2 to 3 times per week with 1 to 2 inches of water. Water should penetrate into the soil 6 to 8 inches deep. The amount of water needed depends on the soil type and weather. Be sure to monitor the soil for dryness, and adjust the watering schedule accordingly.

sunlight

Pin Oak is a deciduous tree native to the Eastern US and is generally hardy to USDA zones 4-8. Pin oaks receive the best growth with full sun, at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. For optimal health and growth, Pin Oak should be exposed to sunlight year round. However, in areas with very hot weather, partial shade is beneficial, especially during the hottest part of the day in summer.

pruning

For the pin oak (Quercus palustris), pruning should only be done in late winter or early spring before similar to any deciduous tree species. Pruning should be limited to no more than 15-20% of the canopy to maintain the natural structure of the tree. Removing dead, diseased, or minor damaged branches is advised for maintenance, as is removal of crossing branches or damaged or low-hanging branches. Pruning should not be done if trees are in active growth, as it can cause significant damage and stress to the trees.

Season

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

The harvesting season for Quercus palustris (pin oak) typically begins in late summer or early fall, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

Pin oaks typically start flowering in April.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Quercus palustris (pin oak) typically begins in late summer or early fall, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map