The showiest Oak for fall color, the Scarlet Oak, Quercus coccinea, is second to none. Its glossy, highly dissected leaves turn brilliant red in fall, glowing in the landscape. Scarlet Oak’s stately size makes it an ideal shade tree that can tolerate drought and dry soils. It is a relatively quick-growing large tree.

Oaks are vitally important in supporting many species of wildlife. Oak species feed caterpillars of more than 500 different kinds of butterflies and moths, more than any other genus of tree. The caterpillars feed on the leaves without harming the trees. Acorns are an essential winter food source for many animals including squirrels, raccoons, fox and deer.

Plant in full sun. Add a starter fertilizer when planting to get roots off to a fast start. Keep well watered until established. The trees benefit from deep watering during dry spells.