About
Quercus alba, the white oak, is a large, vigorous, deciduous tree initially of pyramidal shape developing into a broader, more rounded tree with age. The distinctive, grey-white bark, pink-flushed young foliage turning dark green then rich reddish-brown in autumn, and the small brown acorns in shallow cups make this a magnificent specimen tree for a large, sunny garden.
About the genus
Quercus, the oaks, are a large genus of deciduous or evergreen trees or shrubs with entire, lobed or toothed leaves; inconspicuous flowers; and characteristic acorn fruits, sometimes with good autumn colour. Many are long-lived, wildlife-supporting specimen trees.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeTrees
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
HeightHigher than 12 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesArchitectural
Native toCanada, USA
ToxicityPets (dogs): Harmful if eaten - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in deep, fertile, well-drained soil. A fast growing spreading deciduous tree. Requires lime free soil
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed, sowing as soon as ripe, in a coldframe or grafting in mid-autumn or early winter
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to oak processionary moth, aphids, caterpillars, leaf-mining moths and oak gall wasps
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews and honey fungus