Red Oak (Quercus rubra)

Redwood Oak gets its name from the lavish shades of red its leaves turn during autumn. This unique appearance has led it to be the most planted American Oak within the UK. It is a very fast-growing tree compared to other Oaks as it can grow up to 2 metres per year if planted in the right conditions, with Redwood Oak's reaching up to 28 metres in height. Redwood Oak requires lots of light and plenty of space to grow. In terms of soil, Redwood Oak prefers moist yet well-drained soil to reach its full potential. It can tolerate clay soil but cannot be planted in lime. They are very resilient, being able to tolerate urban pollution, high winds, and temperatures as low as -20 degrees. Its strong, deep roots also make it an ideal candidate for urban planting. This makes it tough yet beautiful to look at especially in autumn.

Redwood Oak is well-liked by pollinators and nesting birds. Reaches a height of 25 metres and has a beautiful, rounded crown. Tiny female flowers can be found individually or in bunches in the spring, while slender male catkins hang in clusters. Female flowers become an acorn, a fruit that takes two years to ripen and is encased in a spherical cup, following wind pollination.

Tree Attributes

Very unique appearance with its shades of red leaves
Can grow up to 2 meters per year
Can tolerate high pollution, high winds and temperatures down to -20 degrees
Has very strong and deep roots