Scarlet Oak (Quercus coccinea)

PLANT INFORMATION

Plant Size: 3 Gallon

Name: Scarlet Oak – Quercus coccinea

Type: Tree

Scarlet oak is a native large broadleaf deciduous tree with a rounded, open habit, and grows 50 to 80 feet tall and spreads between 45 to 60 feet. Aptly named, the scarlet oak is a parade of red throughout the seasons. In the early spring, new leaves unfurl with a red hue. The vibrant red fall display is truly magnificent. And those red leaves often hang on through the first snow, giving winter a touch of much-needed color. The inner bark of the scarlet oak is even red. This tree is long-lived, durable, and easy to grow.  It will add interest to the landscape if used as a shade tree or street tree. As with all oaks, it is a high-value wildlife plant and an important source of food for many wildlife species. It is a host plant for the larvae of the Imperial moth (Eacles imperialis), as well as numerous butterflies.

The scarlet oak and pin oak are frequently confused. The scarlet oak has lobed leaves that form a C-shape, and the acorn cap is a deep bowl shape. The pin oak; however, has U-shaped lobed leaves and a thin cap cover.