Quercus imbricaria (Shingle Oak)

Michael's Opinion

An excellent and somewhat unusual tree because of its uncharacteristic oak leaves that are retained 'en masse' for most of the winter months. It is usually problem free but does need room to grow since the branching habit is almost horizontal to the trunk. I have found that it has done well for me on moist, mulched, heavy clay soils.

Botanical Information

FamilyFagaceae
GenusQuercus
Speciesimbricaria
CategoryWoody
TypeTree (deciduous)
OriginCentral and eastern United States of America.
Pronunciation

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone5 - 8
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone4a - 8a
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH7 - H4
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)(-26) - (-7)
Temperature (°F)(-15) - 20
Height15-26 m
Spread8 m
GrowthMedium
Flowering PeriodApril, May

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionA broadly pyramidal oak with uncharacteristic oak leaves that grows quite rapidly for its genus.
ID CharacteristicLanceolate shiny leaves that often persist into the winter months.
ShapeBroadly pyramidal becoming rounded.
LandscapeA specimen or park tree that needs to be given room to realize its full stature.
PropagationCommonly through seed, although the seed is recalcitrant (will not store).
Notable SpecimensThe Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada. The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.
HabitatFound at altitudes of 100-700 m.
Bark/Stem DescriptionSmooth, blackish when young, maturing to a purple-grey and deeply furrowed.
Flower/Leaf Bud DescriptionBrown, 3 mm in length.
Leaf DescriptionOblong, a pointed apex and a attenuate base, dark green with a pale pubescent underside, 7.5-15 x 2-5 cm.
Fruit DescriptionAcorn, round with black stripes, 1-2 cm.
Colour DescriptionWinter colour is substantial due to the retained dried leaves.
Texture DescriptionCoarse textured.

Photographs