Did you know the Quercus rubra var. borealis, also known as Northern Red Oak, is the New Jersey state tree? On June 13, 1950 the Northern Red Oak became New Jersey’s official state tree for its strength, beauty, and longevity.
You probably have walked by a Northern Red Oak tree many times as it is the most popular tree in the USA, but you can tell a Northern Red Oak easily by its bark as it has ridges which look like they have shiny stripes running down the middle and a beautiful gray brown reddish color. They have long leaves with deep Us in their leaves and are a beautiful green in color. The Northern Red Oak has acorns that grow in clusters of 2 to 3 and start dropping them around October. Growing up to 75 feet tall the Northern Red Oak is not a massive tree.
Northern Red Oaks are long living trees that typically live to about 200, but a tree in good conditions can last up to 400 years.
Northern Red Oaks like full to partial sun and sandier soils. If you’re looking to plant this majestic tree, do not plant in the winter or summer, as spring or fall is a better option. Why? Because that will give them time to develop their anchors a.k.a.roots. When planting this tree make sure the tree is not close to any structures as the roots will spread damaging the structure. After you plant it, the tree will need around 10 to 15 gallons of water a week to remain healthy.
Overall the Northern Red Oak also known as Quercus rubra, is a beautiful tree with an outstanding rounded shape and a very stunning fall leaf color.
