The leaves of the this oak are fairly long and narrow and do not have lobes as is typical of the oaks. A relatively fast growing tree with dark green leaves turning gorgeous russet brown and yellow tones in fall. Holds its leaves in winter especially if hit by a hard freeze while still green. Bark is gray-brown with broad, low ridges. Could be the longest lived oak when planted in ornamental conditions. New root pruning and fertilization techniques in nursery production have made oaks easier to transplant and have given them faster growth rates.