Quercus palustris | Pin Oak | Swamp Oak

The Quercus palustris is a magnificent tree native to North America. Introduced to the UK in 1800 this is a strong, relatively fast-growing, large, deciduous tree with a straight, main trunk. It has a horizontal branch structure, although the lower branches will droop over time, which is a particular characteristic of the Quercus palustris. This tree has a dense canopy and is broadly pyramidal in shape. The grey-brown bark is smooth when young but develops shallow grooves with maturity. The Quercus palustris will grow in a wide range of soil, although grows best in a free-draining, slightly acidic environment. But true to its common name 'Swamp Oak' is a tree that will tolerate periods of water-logging as well as urban pollution and exposure. The large leaves of the Quercus palustris are instantly recognisasble by their deeply-cut, irregular-pointed lobes, glossy green in spring then red, orange and russet in autumn. With space to grow this tree will enhance any landscape.

Mature Height

20m

Tree Features

Characteristically dense canopy with horizontal branches that droop with maturity.

Distinctive, deeply-lobed leaves that turn from green to autumn colours.

Growing Conditions

Thrives best in free-draining, slightly acidic soil, but will tolerate periods of water-logging, and is tolerant of urban pollution and exposure.

Season of Interest

Autumn - Display of red, orange and russet colours.

Tree Type

Standard, Multistem, Pleached, Roof Form, Specimen Tree

Growing Locations

Parklands, Large Gardens, Avenues, Gardens in certain forms

Evergreen / Deciduous?

Deciduous
Did you know?

The Latin specific epithet palustris means "of marshland" or "of swamps", referring to its natural habitat. The common name "pin oak" is possibly due to the historical use of the hard wood for pins in wooden building construction.