scarlet oak
Quercus coccinea

Scarlet oak is an eastern species commonly found on dry upland slopes and ridges. It is useful for timber products and wildlife sustenance. Scarlet oak has also been planted widely as a shade tree for its ability to withstand dry conditions and its reliable scarlet autumn color.

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Light Fall Color. Water
Growth   Size
Timber Value

      Scarlet oak is used for construction lumber, flooring, beams, railroad ties, furniture, planking, etc.
Wildlife Value
      Acorns are eaten by a variety of animals.
          Attracts: mice, squirrels, chipmunks, turkeys, bluejays, woodpeckers, deer
Regeneration methods
      Scarlet oak's shade intolerance and relatively rapid growth rate (compared to other species on dry sites) allow for regeneration by clearcutting and seed-tree methods. Stump sprouting will compliment regeneration
Important Problems Early Detection tips
oak wilt none of any use
Fun facts
Many sources agree, scarlet oak is the choice oak for urban plantings. Paul Cappiello of Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest, KY, states the species is easily transplanted, compared to other oaks, and can grow just as fast as other popular shade trees when supplied with a modicum of water and fertilizer.
Quercus Latin name. coccinea scarlet, Greek "kakkos" (a berry).
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2004 Virginia Tech Forestry Department, all rights reserved. Text, images, and programming by: Dr. Jeff Kirwan, Dr. John R. Seiler, John A. Peterson, Edward C. Jensen, Guy Phillips, or Andrew S. Meeks.

questions, comments, and criticisms: email John.Peterson@vt.edu