The Water Oak is a relatively fast growing oak which also makes it somewhat weaker structurally than other oaks. None-the-less it is still widely used as a majestic shade tree in parks and campuses alike providing many years of enjoyment.

Water Oak is a favorite food source and shelter tree for numerous wildlife species.

Bark: The bark in younger trees is a smooth, brown bark that becomes gray-black with rough scaly ridges as the tree matures.

Foliage: The leaves are alternate, simple, quite variable in shape, mostly oblong, broader near the point, and narrower at the base. They are slightly 3 lobed at the apex but sometimes entire, thin, and of dull bluish-green color, paler underneath than above; mostly smooth, and usually 1 1/2 to 4 inches long and 1/2 to 2 inches wide. They remain green for some time and persist into the late fall and winter.

Flowers: The flowers are staminate flowers borne on catkins or pistillate flowers borne on spikes. The flowers are in bloom from April to May and the seeds ripen in October. The flowers are a faded red color.

Fruit: The fruit consists of acorns and are arranged singly. They mature in the second year, and are usually 1/2 inch long and wide and enclosed 1/4 - 1/3 in a shallow short stalked cap. The nut has alternating striated bands of black and brown.

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More Information

Tree ID Number:	398
Scientific Name:	Quercus nigra
Mature Height:	50 - 80ft
Canopy Spread (Diameter):	30 - 60ft
Branching Shape:	Conical to round topped.
Growth Rate:	Fast
Wood Strength:	Medium
Cold Hardiness Zone:	6-9
Soil Moisture Requirements:	Wet, Moist
Light Requirements:	Sun
Common Pests:	None serious
Comments:	Shade and street tree. More weak-wooded than most oaks and limbs will break in snow, wind and ice.

Find this tree on the Campus Map

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