Willow Oak

At maturity, this species reaches approximately Reaches heights of 60 to 75 feet (18 to 23 m) with a spread of 40 to 60 feet (12 to 18 m), presenting Narrow, elongated leaves resembling willow (hence the name); glossy green in summer turning yellow to brown in fall along with Inconspicuous yellow-green flowers appear in spring; male catkins and small female flowers, followed by Produces acorns that are 0.5 inches long with a shallow cup. These features are supported by a reliable Deep taproot with lateral roots, ensuring stability and sustained growth.

Native to Native to the southeastern United States, Willow Oak thrives in Grows in wet lowlands, riverbanks, and swampy areas at elevations around Sea level to approximately 1,000 feet (300 m). Best suited for USDA Hardiness Zone Zones 6 to 9. Whether grown indoor, in a curated garden or a more natural setting, its ecological requirements help maintain its vigor over time.

You can use our free plant identify app PlantPlants to chose the best spot for Willow Oak, This plant prefers Full sun to part shade and flourishes in Prefers loamy or sandy soils, tolerant of clay with a soil pH of about 5.0 7.5.

Willow Oak needs watering,Moderate; prefers moist but well-drained soil, guided by PlantPlants app, You can get plants daily watering schedule. to maintain Moist, ensure steady hydration. Applying water through Deep watering during dry spells supports even distribution and helps prevent overwatering or dryness.

Willow Oak performs best within 10 F to 100 F (-12 C to 38 C). Its ideal growth occurs at around 75 F to 85 F (24 C to 29 C), though it tolerates ranges from -10 F (-23 C) to 105 F (40 C). Additionally, maintaining Prefers moderate humidity encourages healthy foliage and overall plant vigor.

Feeding with Balanced slow-release fertilizer at the recommended Seasonal Application Frequency on PlantPlants App keeps nutrients balanced. Incorporating Compost or well-rotted manure enhances soil structure and fertility, while staying alert to Yellowing leaves (nitrogen deficiency) helps you adjust care as needed to maintain optimal plant health.

Regular attention ensures this plant’s beauty and longevity. Late winter to early spring for Selective pruning to maintain shape and remove dead wood tidies its appearance, while Not applicable for trees may be necessary as it grows, requiring a Not applicable for trees increase and a fresh Not typically grown in pots. for Staking or Support. Generally not needed unless in windy areas.

During Late fall to early spring, growth may slow and some Leaves turn yellow to brown in autumn before dropping can occur. For those looking to propagate, consider Seed propagation; also can be propagated via acorns and provide Cold stratification recommended for best results when starting from seed. If using cuttings, follow Difficult to propagate by cuttings to ensure successful rooting and healthy new plants.

our free plant identify and care app PlantPlants can help you diagnosisWillow Oak problems.Though generally robust, keep watch for Oak borers, aphids, spider mites and remain vigilant against Oak wilt, powdery mildew. Implementing Healthy cultural practices, monitoring for pests and applying Insecticidal soap for pests, proper sanitation for diseases when issues arise will help sustain the plant thriving.

This plant pairs nicely with Various native plants, shrubs, and perennials and shows Not documented as allelopathic, making it a flexible choice for various Shade tree, street tree, park tree.

the Edible Parts: Acorns (after processing). Toxicty of Willow Oak, Acorns are not highly toxic but may cause digestive issues if consumed in large quantities. learning about its Acorns collected in the fall, Can be processed and ground into flour, and Acorns are rich in carbohydrates and some fats can be intriguing for culinary explorers. Some traditions highlight its Historically used for astringent properties or note its Valued for its timber and ecological role.

With an Not currently endangered, common in its range, proper Management of habitat; protection of wetland areas