Trees

Quercus palustris

Pin oak

Pin oak. Form, in the early fall.

A native oak with a distinctive branching pattern: upper limbs rise while lower limbs often sweep downward. The youthful pyramidal crown broadens with age, and fall foliage can turn bronze or red. Choose acidic soil and an open location with space for its low branches.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun / Part shade
Size: Height: 50 ft.–70 ft. · Width: 40 ft.–60 ft.
Water: Medium to wet, acidic soil; tolerates some flooding
Hardiness: USDA zones 4–8

Sizes & prices

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

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Landscape use & tree form

Use: Shade tree; Ornamental specimen
Form: Oval; 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: Species guidance: occasional dry periods tolerated after establishment, not prolonged drought.
Wet soil: Tolerates poorly drained soil and some flooding; not a claim of permanent submersion.
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: Prefers medium to wet, acidic loam; tolerates poorly drained soil and some flooding.

Sources & photo credits

NC State Extension

University of Minnesota Extension

horticulture.mgcafe.uky.edu

Photo: Willow · CC BY-SA 3.0

Image notes: Pin oak. Form, in the early fall. Resized and converted to WebP.

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