Quercus velutina (Black Oak)
Habit
Black Oak can be considered Red Oak’s younger sibling because it grows in the same range and has similar characteristics. It reaches 50-60 feet in height and has an irregular crown- depending on where its grown it can be rounded or narrow. Although not seen much in commerce, Black Oak is an attractive native tree especially great for woodlands and restoration projects.
Color
Dark green leaves and attractive gray bark that furrows and roughens with age.
Culture
Very adaptable to harsh growing conditions once established. Black Oak is a native upland species that habitates dry and rocky soils. However, like most species, Black Oak grows best with moist well drained soil and full sun/part shade.