Ornamental Oak Varieties

Most people are familiar with the stately oak tree, one of the most recognizable and popular members of the backyard. What you may not realize, however, is that there are a wide variety of oak trees available, many of which make excellent additions to your landscape. This article will detail some of the more popular varieties of oak tree.

Water Oak

This oak variety is a very fast-growing tree and can sometimes grow almost 25 feet within the short time of 10 years. This is a very good tree to use for shade and it can tolerate a number of habitats, though it typically grows in moist soils and wetlands. However, it is also weaker than some other varieties, so it does sometimes suffer damage from weather (especially wind and snow). It should be pruned regularly, and is subject to diseases and insects such as galls, leaf spots, and scales.

Pin Oak

If you want a tall variety of oak then the pin oak is an ideal choice, since it can grow up to 70 feet tall, usually at a rate of 18 inches per year. It is also a fine tree for ornamentation, since its leaves turn red or bronze in the fall. They have a number of uses, including shade, streets, and simple lawn presence. They typically prefer partial shade or sunlight, with soils that are moist, well-drained, and acidic (they do not tolerate high pH levels). They are susceptible to several diseases and problems including cholorosis, oak wilt, and cankers.

Willow Oak

Like other varieties of oak, the willow oak can grow to be quite tall (up to 75 feet tall) and does so very quickly (usually growing 25 feet in as little as 12 years). As its name implies, the leaves appear very similar to those found on willow trees, and it is often used as a shade tree. It grows well in city areas, and it prefers full sunlight, acidic soils, and lots of moisture (although it can tolerate some periods of drought). It has few problems, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a sturdy oak that can withstand a great deal.

White Oak

Unlike other varieties oak, the white oak takes a long time to grow and reach its ultimate maturity. Once it does so, however, it can live for several hundred years. The leaves turn a lovely red or wine color during the winter, while the acorns will bring a number of wildlife species to your backyard. it prefers acidic and well-drained soils and will do best if provided with a great deal of space to grow in. It is also a very hardy tree and suffers from few major problems or diseases.

Source

Clemson Cooperative Extension