Species black oak

black oak

Quercus velutina

Black oak (Quercus velutina) is an oak native to eastern North America. It is often found in oak-hickory forests, typically on dry soils. It is a medium sized tree, reaching up to 80 feet in height, with a broad, open crown of relatively few branches. Its bark is blackish-gray and deeply furrowed. Its oval-shaped leaves are dark green above and yellow-brown and hairy on their underside. In the fall, its leaves turn yellow, red, and brown. Its fruits are small acorns, with one to three in a bur, each with a shallow bowl-shaped cap. This tree is an important food source for squirrels, foxes, jays, woodpeckers, and other wildlife.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

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

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 9

Flowers:

Yellowish-green Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Black oak trees should be watered deeply at least once per week during the growing season (spring, summer, and early fall). Water each tree slowly and thoroughly so the roots can absorb the moisture. It is important not to water too frequently, as this can lead to root rot. During periods of drought, trees may need additional water, so check the soil around the trees for dryness before watering. In general, Black Oak trees need at least 10 gallons of water per inch of trunk diameter per growing season.

sunlight

Black oaks (Quercus velutina) typically thrive in direct sunlight and require at least 6 hours of sunlight per day for optimal growth. However, black oaks are quite adaptable and can tolerate partial shade, though some of the leaves may become yellow or scorched if they are exposed to too much shade. During the warmer months of April through October, the sun should be shining directly on the leaves for most of the day with some filtered shade in the afternoon hours. In the colder months, the sunlight should be limited to 8 hours per day, with more shade in the late morning and early afternoon hours.

pruning

Black oak should be pruned lightly every year in late winter or early spring before bud break. Heavy pruning should be done only every 2-3 years. Prune branches to about 1-third the length of the branch above the cut, cutting just beyond the branch collar. Make sure to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches and any branches that are rubbing against each other.

Season

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

Black oaks typically start flowering in April.

Hardiness Map