Texas Red Oak

Quercus texana

Texas Red Oak is a medium to small tree, rarely growing over 75 feet, but usually 30 to 50 feet, with spreading branches. It is found on alkaline limestone and neutral to slightly acid gravels and sands of north central and central Texas. Texas Red Oak is smaller, more often multi-trunked, and more drought tolerant than Shumard Red Oak. The foliage turns bright shades of vivid red and orange in autumn. The bark is dark gray to black with platelike scales, although sometimes it is light gray and smooth.

Plant Habit or Use: medium tree
Exposure: sun
Flower Color: reddish-brown, catkins 1 to 3 1/2 in. long
Blooming Period: spring
Fruit Characteristics: acorns, reddish-brown
Height: up to 75 ft.
Width: up to 60 ft.
Plant Character: deciduous
Heat Tolerance: high
Water Requirements: low
Soil Requirements: alkaline adaptable
USDA Hardiness Zone: 8