Quercus Phellos

Quercus phellos (Willow Oak) is a fast growing native oak known for its narrow, willow like leaves and uniform, rounded canopy. Its adaptability and strong structure make it a popular shade tree for urban and residential landscapes.

Height & Spread: 40 - 60 ft x 30 - 50 ft

Bloom Time: Spring

Light Requirements: Full sun

Soil Preference: Adaptable; tolerates wet and clay soils

Watering Needs: Moderate

Deer Resistance: Moderate deer resistance

Native Status

Native to the southeastern United States, commonly found in bottomlands and moist soils.

WILDLIFE & INSECTS

Birds

• Acorns provide food for birds such as woodpeckers and ducks.

Mammals

• Supports squirrels, deer, and other wildlife.

Butterflies & Moths

• Host plant for numerous native caterpillar species.

Spacing & Landscape Use

Spacing Recommendations

• Plant 30 - 50 ft apart for canopy development.

Landscape Placement

• Ideal as a fast growing shade tree for streets, parks, and large properties.

Companion Plants

• Taxodium distichum (Bald Cypress) - Shares tolerance for moist soils and large scale planting.
• Nyssa sylvatica - Adds fall color and complements similar habitat conditions.
• Itea virginica - Provides understory structure in moist soils.
• Carex stricta - Adds native ground layer in wet conditions.