Quercus phellos,
commonly called willow oak, is a medium to large, deciduous oak tree of the red
oak group that is noted for its oak shape, willow-like leaves and relatively
fast growth rate. It is native to the Southeastern United States, typically
being found in moist bottomland soils. It grows in woodlands, along streams and
in swamps. Willow oak typically grows 40-75’ tall with an oval to rounded
crown, but may reach 100’ in ideal conditions. Smooth-edged, bristle-tipped,
narrow, green leaves (to 5” long and 1” wide) are willow-like. Fruits are
rounded acorn cups (to 1/2” long). Acorns can be an important source of food
for wildlife. Dark, irregularly-furrowed trunks (gray to dark gray-brown)
develop on mature trees.
Willow oak is generally considered to have good resistance to pests and to be a
low-maintenance, long-lived tree. A medium to large shade tree for large lawns,
along streets or in parks. Also effective along ponds or water gardens. Easily
grown in average, medium to wet, well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerates
light shade. Prefers moist well-drained loams, but adapts to a wide range of
soil conditions including clays with somewhat poor drainage. Generally tolerant
of urban pollution. Hardy in Zones 5-9.
Growing
Instructions for the Willow Oak
The seeds have
a period of dormancy. They can be planted outdoors in the fall or winter for
spring germination or they can be cold stratified to simulate winter conditions
and to break their dormancy at any time of the year. 1. Soak the seeds in water
for 24 hours. 2. Put the seeds in a ziplock bag. 3. Put the bag in the
refrigerator and leave it there for 3 months. 4. The seeds like moist,
well-drained soil. Prepare a mixture of half potting soil and half sand,
perlite or vermiculite. Put the soil in a pot. 5. Sow the seeds 1 inch deep in
the soil. 6. Water the soil so that it is moist but not wet. 8. When the
seedlings are a few inches tall, they can be transplanted.
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Henry (verified owner) –
WOW!! Not one dud in the bunch!! Shortly after planting they started growing ! These are really great packet of seeds!!!
Jackson (verified owner) –
The seeds had a great germination rate
Robert (verified owner) –
Very fast delivery.
Anthony (verified owner) –
Great seeds, I now have squash everywhere from this one pack of seeds