Quercus rubra

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Quercus rubra
NORTHERN RED OAK

Fagaceae
E. North America

Location: map coordinates F-8 (near Loop Road, north of Jenkins Hall), N 39°11'16'' W 75°32'44''

Planting history: presently unknown.

Description:
  • large deciduous tree
  • etymology: Quercus = the Latin name; rubra = red (autumn color)
  • leaves simple, alternate, lobed, dull above; colorful in autumn
  • monoecious (separate male and female flowers on same tree); flowers tiny; male flowers in drooping catkins, female flowers inconspicuous
  • fruit is an acorn (develops from ovary of female flower)
  • in the “red/black oak group”: leaf lobes with bristle-tips; acorn matures in 2 years, relatively bitter and inedible unless processed
  • end buds clustered (typical of oaks)
  • fast-growing, tolerant of urban conditions
  • native habitat moist woods

Native species, State Rank S5 (very common in Delaware)
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