Scarlet Oak
quercus coccinea
Also known as: ["Scarlet Oak","Spanish Oak"]
Overview
A deciduous tree known for its brilliant red fall foliage and acorns.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fagales |
| Family: | Fagaceae |
| Genus: | Quercus |
| Botanical Name: | Quercus coccinea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor landscape, preferably in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–28–38°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or biennially, typically in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; focus on selective removal rather than heavy cutting.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day). Adjust for young trees to prevent leaf scorch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate young trees gradually to full sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure adequate spacing for light penetration.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Monitor for leaf scorch; provide shade during extreme heat; rotate the tree for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–14 days, depending on rainfall and soil moisture
Water deeply to encourage deep root growth; avoid frequent shallow watering; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.
Soil
well-drained, acidic to slightly alkaline loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Avoid waterlogged soil; test pH periodically; amend with compost as needed.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; tolerates cold winters and hot summers. Prefers moderate temperatures during active growth.
Protect from late frosts; water adequately in heat; monitor for stress signs.
Fertilizing
annually in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer
Test soil before fertilizing; apply fertilizer evenly around the drip line; water after application.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is common; stem cuttings can be attempted but are less reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect mature acorns or cuttings.
- Prepare medium.
- Plant or insert cuttings.
- Maintain moisture and warmth.
Best Time: Spring for seeds; late spring to early summer for cuttings.
Environment
Warm, humid environment for cuttings; consistent moisture for seeds.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix for seeds; sterile rooting medium for cuttings.
Hormone
Rooting hormone can be used for cuttings but is not essential.
Timeline
Seeds may take 1–3 years to germinate; cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Stratify seeds for better germination; use bottom heat for cuttings; maintain humidity for cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a bud or branch collar; avoid topping the tree.
Pruning Plan
Prune to remove dead or diseased branches, improve structure, and maintain health.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead or crossing branches; make clean cuts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter for container-grown trees.
Method
Use a well-draining soil mix; gently tease out roots; ensure proper drainage holes.
Suggestions
Generally not required for outdoor trees; container-grown trees may need repotting every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Prepare new pot and soil; gently remove tree; prune roots if necessary; replant at same depth.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; avoid wetting foliage; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the tree, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during the growing season, reducing frequency in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture levels.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or organic matter to enhance drainage and fertility; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold or frost.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn brown or drop; growth may slow or cease; young trees are more susceptible to frost damage.
Solution: Plant in a sheltered location; use mulch to insulate roots; protect young trees with burlap screens during severe cold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide supplemental water during dry spells; mulch to retain soil moisture; avoid pruning during extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil pH; apply fertilizer in spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; water after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as oaks are generally low-maintenance.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Quercus coccinea, particularly the acorns and leaves, due to the tannin content. The physiological impact is similar to that in dogs, with potential for mild irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Quercus coccinea acorns and leaves can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of tannins. The effects are generally not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicQuercus coccinea, commonly known as scarlet oak, contains tannins in its acorns and leaves which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in large quantities. The physiological impact is primarily due to the astringent properties of tannins, which can lead to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Quercus coccinea have any medicinal uses?
A: No, it is not commonly used for medicinal purposes.
Q: How fast does Quercus coccinea grow?
A: It grows at a moderate rate, typically gaining about 1-2 feet per year.
Q: Is Quercus coccinea suitable for urban environments?
A: It can tolerate urban conditions but prefers well-drained soil and full sun.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fagaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–14 days, depending o |
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