Quercus rubra - Northern Red Oak

Quercus rubra (Northern Red Oak) looks excellent as a fast-growing, upright shade tree with a broad, symmetrical canopy that provides strong architectural presence in large gardens, parks, and avenue plantings. Its dark green, deeply lobed leaves offer rich texture during the growing season and transform into a spectacular autumn display of maroon, red, and golden-brown hues, creating eye-catching seasonal interest.

Reaching 18 to 25 metres tall with a 12 to 15-metre spread, Northern Red Oak establishes quickly compared to other oaks, making it ideal where fast canopy development and shade are needed. Its straight trunk and neat form suit formal streetscapes and civic landscapes well.

It performs best in full sun with well-drained soils and tolerates urban conditions, clay soils, and moderate drought once established. The tree looks excellent when underplanted with shade-tolerant groundcovers or late-flowering perennials to extend seasonal interest beneath its canopy. Low maintenance and moderate watering needs make it a practical and attractive choice for both residential and public spaces.