Willow Oak Trees grow best in zones 5 to 9 and need to be planted in a spacious area to make room for their growth. They can grow up to 40 to 75 feet tall in their lifetime and reach their mature height in about two years. The tree can spread out to reach up to 25 to 50 feet from its trunk. The leaves of the tree are shaped like willow leaves, which is where it gets its name.
Willow Oak Tree's Requirements
Willow Oak Trees have bright green, oblong leaves up to 4 inches long. Small yellow-green flowers grow in spring before leaf growth begins. After 15 years of age, the tree starts producing acorns. The deciduous tree works in most soil types, only requiring it to be well-draining to prevent root rot. If a large tree is preferred, planting in a location that receives full sun is needed.
Pruning Willow Oak Tree
Willow Oak Tree can tolerate partial shade, but its branches will be weaker and unable to support a larger size. The tree requires regular watering during its root establishment but can tolerate drought conditions after they are set. In a typical tree, pruning is only needed to remove dead branches and to shape the tree if desired. Regular pruning will be required to prevent upper limbs from growing straggly toward the sun if planted in a lower-light area. Upper branches should be cut back to allow more energy to build a more substantial structure. They are typically grown for the shade their large forms can produce.
Willow Oak Tree's Attributes
Hardy Planting Zone - Grows best in zones 5 to 9
Bloom Season (if any) - Spring
Bloom Color - Yellow-green
Height at Maturity - Reaches 40 to 75 feet tall
Soil Type Preferred - Well-drained, loamy soil
Sun or Shade - Full sun