Trees

Quercus coccinea

Scarlet oak

Scarlet oak. Form.

Deeply lobed leaves and vivid red autumn color make this native oak a striking shade tree. It develops an open, rounded crown and is well suited to a spacious, well-drained site. Young trees establish more readily than large transplanted specimens because of the developing taproot.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun / Part shade
Size: Height: 50 ft.–80 ft. · Width: 45 ft.–60 ft.
Water: Dry to moderately moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness: USDA zones 4–9

Sizes & prices

#7Scarlet Oak$124.99
#3$64.99

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

Ask about this plant

Select a section to expand.

Landscape use & tree form

Use: Shade tree; Ornamental specimen
Form: Pyramidal; Rounded
Growth rate: Rapid
Fruit / litter: Acorns; allow for seasonal nut and leaf cleanup
Major issues: Oak wilt and other regional oak diseases warrant monitoring; avoid unnecessary root or trunk wounds.

Resistance & tolerances

Deer: Listed as resistant; protect young trees from browsing and antler rubbing.
Drought: Tolerant once established; water during establishment and prolonged dry spells.
Wet soil: Good drainage is recommended; prolonged saturation tolerance is not established.
Heat: Tolerant.

Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.

Pollinators & wildlife

Caterpillar host: Butterflies and moths
Wildlife food: Nuts for birds

Native range

Native range / parentage: Native to Kentucky Species native to Kentucky.
Tristate native status: Native to Kentucky

Keep in mind: Acorns and foliage can harm grazing livestock, especially horses; keep animals from consuming them.

Seasonal interest

Foliage: Deciduous

Growing & care

Pruning: Prune in the cold dormant season and follow local oak-wilt advisories; avoid spring and early-summer wounds.
Soil: Acidic, sandy soil on the dry side is preferred; good drainage is important.

Sources & photo credits

NC State Extension

University of Minnesota Extension

horticulture.mgcafe.uky.edu

Photo: Cephas · CC BY-SA 3.0

Image notes: Scarlet oak. Form. Resized and converted to WebP.

Reviewed September 22, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.