Introducing...
Oak
Botanical name: Quercus
Common name: Oak
Oaks are a large and diverse genus with both deciduous and evergreen species. They are appreciated for their broad, stately shape, wildlife value and, in some species, brilliant autumn colour. Although they are mostly robust forest and farmland trees, there are also compact, ornamental forms.
Looks
Oaks typically have a broad, rounded crown with lobed, toothed or smooth-edged leaves. Many are deciduous, with brilliant autumn colour in shades of gold, russet or scarlet. Quercus palustris ‘Green Dwarf’ is small enough for an average garden, while the evergreen holm oak Quercus ilex, makes a good hedge or windbreak.
Likes
Oaks generally prefer well-drained, fertile soil and full sun, though some will tolerate heavier clays. Young trees benefit from shelter from strong wind but, once established, oaks are highly resilient and drought tolerant.
Dislikes
They dislike waterlogged soil and poor drainage. Urban pollution and compacted soils, for example caused by parking nearby, can also hinder growth, especially in newly planted trees.
Did you know?
The common – or what we like to think of as English – oak, can live for over 1,000 years. This contributes to their extraordinary ecological value with over 2,300 species of wildlife associated with oak trees, both above and below ground, in the UK alone.
Growing guide
How to grow trees
All the information you need to grow and care for oaks in your garden
Oak we recommend
Quercus palustris Green Pillar ('Pringreen')
pin oak [Green Pillar]
- Higher than 12 metres
- 2.5–4 metres
Quercus coccinea 'Splendens'
scarlet oak 'Splendens'
- Higher than 12 metres
- Wider than 8 metres
Quercus palustris Green Pillar ('Pringreen')
pin oak [Green Pillar]
- Higher than 12 metres
- 2.5–4 metres
Quercus coccinea 'Splendens'
scarlet oak 'Splendens'
- Higher than 12 metres
- Wider than 8 metres
Useful advice
Trees and the law
Trees for climate change
Plants for under trees
Trees: formative pruning
Trees and shrubs: planting
Tree Preservation Orders
Trees near buildings
Oak processionary moth
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.