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Public Plant Profile

Bur Oak

Quercus macrocarpa

Category: Deciduous Tree • Oak

Bur Oak is a majestic tree known for its large acorns and wildlife benefits, perfect for shade and specimen planting.

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Mature Height: 50-80 feet

Mature Width: 60-80 feet

Light: Sun

Zone: Zones 3-8

Maintenance: Low

Growth Rate: Moderate

Season of Interest: Multi-season

Foliage: Deciduous

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Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

Bur Oak is a large deciduous tree known for its rugged bark and broad, lobed leaves. It produces acorns that are a vital food source for wildlife.

Ideal Conditions

Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Prefers well-drained soil and is drought-tolerant once established.

Soil Preferences

Adaptable to various soil types, prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH, and requires good drainage.

Sun Needs

Sun

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

specimenshade tree

Special Features

Large acornswildlife food source

Wildlife Value

Acorns provide significant food for wildlife.

Resistance / Tolerance

Drought tolerant, resistant to urban conditions.

Notes from Our Designer

Ideal for large spaces due to its size. Provides excellent shade and supports local wildlife.

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Design Ideas Using This Plant

Use this page to get a feel for where Bur Oak may fit in the landscape, then explore similar plants below for more ideas on form, texture, and overall planting style.

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Helpful Next Steps

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bur Oak a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

Next Step

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