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Public Plant Profile

Northern Red Oak

Quercus rubra

Category: Deciduous Tree • Oak

Northern Red Oak is a majestic tree known for its stunning fall color and strong wood, perfect for shade and specimen planting.

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Mature Height: 50-75 feet

Mature Width: 45 feet

Light: Sun

Zone: Zones 3-8

Maintenance: Moderate

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

The Northern Red Oak is a large deciduous tree known for its impressive height and broad canopy. It features dark green leaves that turn vibrant red in the fall, making it a popular choice for landscaping and timber.

Ideal Conditions

Thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil. It grows best in slightly acidic conditions.

Soil Preferences

Requires well-drained soil with good moisture retention. Prefers slightly acidic pH and adapts to various soil types.

Sun Needs

Sun

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

specimenshade tree

Special Features

Attractive fall foliagestrong wood

Wildlife Value

Provides habitat and food for various wildlife.

Resistance / Tolerance

Drought tolerant once established

Notes from Our Designer

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

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Design Ideas Using This Plant

Use this page to get a feel for where Northern Red 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 Northern Red 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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