Quercus rubra

Northern red oak (Quercus rubra) is a large tree native to eastern North America. It is highly valued for its relatively fast growth (for an oak), its longevity, and its striking autumn coloration, which ranges from reddish-brown to brilliant scarlet red. Its bark is smooth and gray on young trees, becoming darker and developing distinctive ridges with age. The leaves are alternate, lobed, with the pointed lobes typical of red oaks. The acorns are round and broad, with a shallow cup covering about one-quarter of the nut, and serve as an important food source for wildlife.

Soil type: Northern red oak is adaptable to a wide range of soils but prefers deep, well-drained conditions.