The statuesque Missouri and Illinois native Red Oak Tree, Quercus rubra, grows fast and lives a long time. Its young leaves unfurl a reddish color. The leaves mature to shiny dark green, with deep lobes with distinct points. Red Oaks have male and female flowers on the same tree. The male flowers are pendulous catkins; the short spikes of female flowers morph into acorns. In the fall, the leaves turn a brilliant russet-red to bright red. The red-banded hairstreak butterfly caterpillars feed on its fallen leaves. The Red Oak Tree tolerates more shade than other Oaks and matures to 60-75′ tall and wide. Also called Northern Red Oak.

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.

Plant in full sun to light shade. 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.