Introduction
The scarlet oak, the District of Columbia’s state tree, is prized for its rich, red fall foliage from which it gets its name. Once established, the scarlet oak can withstand significant dry spells.
Size and Light Requirements
Scarlet oak is slow to moderate growing, reaching 40 feet in height in 30 to 50 years. It does best when planted in full sun.
Plant This Tree
This tree is available through our residential planting program, RiverSmart Homes. You can also get up to $100 back for planting this tree yourself through our tree rebate program.
Find Another Tree
All the trees in this guide have been selected by Casey Trees and are well adapted to the soil and conditions present in Washington, D.C.
Photo Credits
Characteristics
Size
This tree can reach 60' - 80' in height and 40' - 50' in spread. It can take 40 to 100 years for this tree to achieve mature size and that size will vary depending on site conditions.
Light
Full Sun
Care
Requires 25 gallons of water per week for the first three years
Flower
Male flowers are borne on slender yellow-green catkins; females are borne on very short axilliary spikes; both appear with the leaves in spring between March and June.
Fruit/Nut
Acorns are 1/2 to 1 inch long, with the cap covering half of the nut; cap scales are shiny; tip of acorn may have concentric rings or fine cracks.
Seasonal Color
Green in summer with brilliant red or scarlet color in autumn
Eligibility
This tree is available through our residential planting program, RiverSmart Homes. You can also get up to $100 back for planting this tree yourself through our tree rebate program.