Northern Pin Oak Seedling – Quercus ellipsoidalis
The Northern Pin Oak (Quercus ellipsoidalis) is a hardy and fast-growing deciduous tree that brings both beauty and structure to your landscape. Known for its symmetrical shape, attractive dark green foliage, and tolerance to a range of soil types, the Northern Pin Oak is a fantastic choice for those looking to plant a resilient tree with seasonal color and shade. Native to North America, this oak species thrives in both urban and rural environments, making it ideal for a variety of landscapes.
Key Features:
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Scientific Name: Quercus ellipsoidalis
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Height at Maturity: 40-60 feet (12-18 meters)
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Spread: 30-40 feet (9-12 meters)
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Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
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Soil Preference: Well-drained, loamy, or sandy soils, tolerant of slightly acidic soils
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Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
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Hardiness Zones: 3-8
Description:
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Leaves: The Northern Pin Oak boasts deeply lobed, dark green leaves that turn a beautiful red-brown in the fall, offering a stunning seasonal display. The leaves have a unique, pointed shape that gives the tree an elegant appearance.
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Acorns: Like other oaks, this tree produces acorns that provide food for wildlife such as squirrels, deer, and birds. The acorns are smaller than those of other oaks but still an important food source.
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Bark: The bark of the Northern Pin Oak is gray-brown with tight ridges that deepen as the tree matures, adding texture and visual interest to the trunk.
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Wood: The wood of the Northern Pin Oak is hard, durable, and used for a variety of purposes, including furniture, flooring, and construction. It’s a valuable hardwood with a fine grain.
Why Choose Northern Pin Oak?
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Attractive Shape & Fall Color: The Northern Pin Oak’s upright, symmetrical form and vibrant fall foliage make it a standout tree in any landscape, offering year-round visual appeal.
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Wildlife Friendly: Its acorns are a food source for a variety of animals, and the tree’s dense canopy provides shelter for birds and other wildlife.
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Tolerant & Low Maintenance: This oak is more tolerant of compacted soils and urban environments than some other oak species, making it an excellent choice for city parks, streetscapes, or home landscapes.
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Fast Growth & Shade: The Northern Pin Oak grows quickly, providing shade and cooling benefits in just a few years, making it a perfect tree for larger yards or public green spaces.
Whether you’re planting for aesthetics, wildlife habitat, or long-term shade, the Northern Pin Oak offers a range of benefits with its rapid growth, seasonal beauty, and environmental value. It’s a versatile tree that thrives in various conditions, making it a solid investment for any landscape.
