Quercus macrocarpa

The bur oak is an incredibly distinct, almost prehistoric-looking shade tree with dark, thick, ornate bark resembling wings adorning its trunk and branches. This tough tree tolerates poor air and soil conditions. Native Americans used its inner bark for varied medicinal purposes.

Size and Light Requirements

A slow-growing shade tree best planted in a sunny location, the bur oak can be expected to reach about 40 feet in height in 50 years.

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, DC.