Shumard oak can be considered the southern counterpart to the Northern Red oak. It’s a huge bottomland tree. The leaves are glossy deep green,deeply lobed, have pointed tips and usually show good red fall color. Among the first of the oaks to change color each year. The smooth bark is striped.
Native Plant Database
Header Photo: Mervin Wallace
Shumard Oak
Quercus shumardii
Plant Type: Trees
Native Environment: Forest
Season of Interest: Mid (May - June), Late (July - frost), Winter (Nov - Mar)
Main Color: Green
Fall Color: Red
USDA PLANTS Range Map
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Medium Sun/Average Shade
Soil
Moisture
Dry
Nature Attracting
Pollinators/Beneficial Insects
Wildlife Benefit
Cover, Food/Birds, Food/Small Animals, Nesting
Animal
Resistance
Size
Height:
40 to
60
feet
Spread:
40 to
60
feet
Size
Height: 40 to
60
feet
Spread: 40 to
60
feet
Size
Height: 40 to
60
feet
Spread: 40 to
60
feet
Typical Landscape Use
Spectacular large tree for large spaces.
Establishment and Care Instructions
More tolerant of alkaline (limestone) soil than the Northern Red Oak. Tolerates short-term flooding, but not shade. Prefers well drained soil. Grows quickly for an oak!
Special Features
Interesting Bark
Special Usage
Basic Description
Where Should I Start?
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Where Can I Find This Plant in Nature?
Learn about the Native Environment(s) inhabited by the plants in this database.