Bur Oak
Plant Type: Dormant, bare-root
Zones: 2-8
Soil Type: Clay, Loamy & Sandy Soils
Site Selection: Full Sun, Partial Sun
Mature Height & Width: 80-100' Height and 60-80' Spread
Growth Rate: Moderate - 12-24" per year once established
Moisture Requirements: Dry to average soils
Bur Oak
Quercus macrocarpa
Bur Oak trees are very large, grand and long-lived trees. This oak makes an excellent shade tree and has a very large and stately form. This hardwood forms stout limbs from a broad crown as it ages, and its branches can extend up to 40' in each direction from its trunk. The tree will grow in a variety of soil conditions and displays good drought resistance. The Bur Oak is a sturdy tree that will stand the test of time, living for as long as 300-400+ years. Please note: Oak trees grow with a tap root. A tap root is a thick, centrally located root that grows vertically. The tree(s) you receive will not exhibit a fibrous root system like many other hardwood species, and this is considered normal.
The Bur Oak is sometimes known as the Mossy Oak.
The Bur Oak is a rather large and stately shade tree with few problems as far as pests or diseases go. This medium to fast grower will average 12-18" of growth and sometimes up to 2 feet in an average growing season. This oak will grow both in upland areas, sandy plains, prairie grasslands as well as those slightly lower areas of your property along rivers and streams. Once this tree matures, it will produce acorns that are enjoyed by many types of birds and wildlife.
Common uses for the Bur Oak:
- Large stately tree for large spaces
- Used for a large and long lived wind break
- Often used on golf courses and in parks and cemeteries
- Firewood; has a very high heat value
- Strong lumber used in many types of projects
- Great wildlife value
The Bur Oak has great wildlife value. Deer, turkeys, quail, jays, some ducks and a wide variety of woodpeckers are attracted to the acorns. Songbirds and many types of squirrels and other mammals use this tree for nesting and cover.
