Red Oak Tree

Have you ever seen a red oak tree(Quercus rubra) in person before? Some say they are the most beautiful trees, and some are even said to be the source of life. The branches of it can reach up to 230 feet up into the air, and they can live around 400 years. They give off red bark in their lower portions, most prevalent during the winter months.

Attributes of a Red Oak Tree

When it comes to this tree, it is said that the leaves of this type of tree are huge in comparison to the other trees. The leaves resemble the shapes of an oak leaf, but they are much longer than an oak leaf. The leaves are usually twice as broad as they are tall and have more like veins indicating them being a different species of tree.

Mature Size

Since the tree is evergreen, the tree will stay green year after year. The mature height of a mature tree is around 110-140 feet tall. The leaves of the tree are very durable and can withstand powerful winds that can cause actual damage to other trees.

Growth Rate Of The Red Oak

The growth rate of the tree is slow but consistent. They can grow as big as 6 feet per year and up to 10 feet per year. The root systems of these trees are also quite large and very healthy. A mature red oak will produce around 3000 acorns a year, and out of those acorns, over 20% will grow into new trees.

Sun Preference

The tree is very hardy, so the sun will not harm them much. The tree has a solid shade tolerance which means that it can grow in areas with little sunlight. Due to this, the tree will survive in environments where there are very few other trees.

Soil Preference Of The Red Oak Tree

The tree can grow in many environments, but it is not recommended to grow in very moist and wet areas, as this will cause the roots of this type of plant to rot. The roots of the tree are very healthy, so if there is little water available for them, they will not be hurt.

Wildlife Value

The tree is very sturdy, but it also has strong roots. The roots of a red oak tree can hold and help support over 50 times its weight. It means that the root systems of the tree are pretty healthy and tough. The roots of this tree are important for providing nutrients to the other parts of the plant so that the roots can affect plants growing near.

Consider the red oak tree as an ancient tree. Some say that it is the most beautiful kind of tree ever, and there are many records of these types of trees being used for shelter and for building things out of wood. If you have seen one in person, you might agree that red oaks have great value and beauty. Consider how well a tiny seed can grow into a solid and beautiful tower of thick branches that can reach up over 300 feet high in the air.