Bur Oak
Scientific Name: Quercus macrocarpa
Family: Fagaceae
Location on Campus: 46.895056, -96.803056
Description: Very large in stature but very majestic an inspiring, this tree grows very slowly but becomes a very nice specimen once it matures. While its autumn color is nothing special, its deep green color in the summer is quite beautiful. Because it is in the white oak group, its acorns mature in one season rather than two.
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 3-8
Natural Habitat: North America
Mature Size: Height: 70-80', Spread: 70-80'
Form (Shape): Oval in youth, weakly pyramidal when mature.
Growth Rate: Slow
Foliage: Lustrous dark green in summer turning to yellowish-green or brown in the autumn. Leaves are lobed and very broad or club-like at the tip.
Texture: Coarse
Flowers: Insignificant.
Fruit: Nut (acorn) partially enclosed in a cap which is fringed on the margin. Matures in a single season.
Light: Full sun
Soil: Adaptable to various soils and is found on sandy plains to moist alluvial bottoms; on uplands, limestone soils are favored; succeeds well even in dry, clay soils; more tolerant of city conditions than most oaks.
Propagation: Seed
Failure Patterns: Difficult to transplant. Sudden Oak Death could be an issue in the future.
Disease and Insects:
Landscape Use: Excellent park or large area tree, too large for the average home landscape.
Availability: Readily available in retail nurseries.
