Quercus stellata

RHS Plant Profile
post oak

Other common names

iron oak, rough white oak

Trees

A slow-growing small to medium-sized deciduous tree eventually reaching 12m. The rich green leaves have deep rounded lobes and the first two are often so prominent that there is a crucifix-like appearance. The feel of them is rough due to short hard hairs all over. The autumn colour can be a good dark gold-bronze

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

8-12 metres

Max Spread

4-8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
20–50 years
Max Spread
4-8 metres
Max Height
8-12 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained or Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Fagaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Spreading branched
Potentially harmful
Pets (dogs): Harmful if eaten - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Genus
Quercus can be deciduous or evergreen trees or shrubs, with entire, lobed or toothed leaves; flowers inconspicuous, followed by characteristic acorns; sometimes good autumn colour
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Suited to large gardens and parkland. Grow in any well-drained but moisture-retentive soil in good light. For more information see tree cultivation.

Propagation

Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer or seed, soon after it drops. For more advice see our information on how to propagate from seed (tree/shrub

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Architectural

Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

May be susceptible to oak processionary moth, aphids, caterpillars, leaf-mining moths and oak gall wasps

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews and honey fungus