Quercus coccinea

Scarlet Oak (Black Oak)

Scarlet oak is a popular tree with spectacular fall color. Leaves are a dark, glossy green color, changing to red in the fall. Scarlet Oak and Pin Oak are frequently confused. The scarlet oak has lobed leaves that form a C-shape, and the acorn cap is a deep bowl shape. The pin oak, however, has U-shaped lobed leaves and a thin cap cover. The bark is dark brown and has fine fissures and scaly ridges. The stems are reddish-brown and smooth.

The tree is an important source of food for many wildlife species including woodpeckers, wild turkey, other birds, and small and large mammals. For an oak, it grows fast and bears acorns in 20 years. 

It will add interest to the landscape if used as a specimen or shade tree.

  • Native shade tree
  • Broad, rounded habit
  • Vibrant red fall color

  • Category: Tree, Native
  • Hardiness Zone: 4-9
  • Height: 50-80 ft
  • Spread: 40-60 ft
  • Foliage Color: Green
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Landscape Characteristics
Bark Color
Foliage Color
Ornamental Fruit
Classification by Use
Color Impact
Drought Tolerant
Native
Shade Tree
Street Tree
Specialty Use
Wildlife Garden
Animal Resistance
Deer Resistant
Attracts Wildlife
Attracts Pollinators
Attracts Songbirds
Habit
Spreading
Upright
Light Requirement
Full Sun
Foliage
Deciduous
Season of Interest (Foliage)
Fall
Summer
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Moisture
Average Water
Well-Drained
Foliage Color
Green
Growing & Maintenance Tips for Quercus coccinea

Grow in acidic, sandy soils on the dry side. Will tolerate other soil types if they are well-drained. Does not develop chlorosis like some other oaks but is less tolerant of adverse conditions like pollution.