Scarlet Oak

Native to North America, Quercus coccinea is a majestic, fast-growing deciduous tree celebrated for its brilliant late-season display. It features deeply lobed, glossy green foliage that transforms into a vivid, burning scarlet in Autumn—often remaining on the branches well into Winter. The tree develops a high, open canopy with a formal, cylindrical habit as it matures. Producing small, turbinate acorns, it provides excellent value for local wildlife. This oak is particularly prized for its ability to thrive in thin, sandy, or acidic soils where other species might struggle. It serves as an outstanding specimen tree for large gardens or parklands where its dramatic fall color can be fully appreciated.

Site: Very tolerant of exposure, including coastal exposure
Soil:  Any well drained soil
Position: Full sun
Season of interest: All year
Hardiness: Half-hardy
Height: 60–80’ (18–24m) Spread: 40–50 feet (12–15m)

Image 2 by Anders Lagerås cropped and licensed under Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported