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Red Oak
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Zones 5-9
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1-year guaranteeShips in 1–5 daysReal plant experts
From our farm to your front door
- Shipped in its nursery pot, so the roots stay undisturbed
- Soil secured so it stays put in transit
- Packed so the plant stays steady on the way to you
At a glance
- Leaves
- Deciduous: drops its leaves in fall and regrows them in spring
- Sunlight
- Full Sun
- Water
- When the top 2" of soil is dry
- Growth & size
- Fast growth rate; it reaches a mature height of 60 to 80 feet and a width of 40 to 60 feet.
- Botanical name
- Quercus shumardii
- Hardiness
- Zones 5-9
- Tolerates
- Cold hardyHeat tolerantHumidity tolerantWind tolerant
Where it grows in the groundShaded areas are the zones where it can be planted outdoors.
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Size guide & what arrives
Size Facts
| *Trade size | **Pot size |
|---|---|
| 1 gallon | 6" |
| 3 gallon | 8 to 10" |
| 5 gallon | 10 to 12" |
| 7 gallon | 14" |
| 10 gallon | 15 to 17" |
| 15 gallon | 17" |
| "Jumbo" | 7 or 10 or 15 gallon |
*Nursery gallon sizes are trade sizes and do not equal standard liquid gallons.
**Pot sizes in inches refer to container width (diameter), not plant or pot height.
Please note: Sizing can differ between plant varieties and growers. Please chat with us if you need clarification.
For more information on sizing, please see our sizing guide.
What arrives
Good to know
This tree is known for its ability to attract wildlife, including birds and squirrels, making it a great addition to a wildlife-friendly landscape. Its large size is best suited for spacious properties.
What customers are saying
5.0
out of 5 · 5 verified reviews
rated it 4 or 5 stars
Why customers love it
Healthy, well-rooted plants
Hand-selected and shipped in its nursery pot.
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Ask us anything before or after planting.
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Care made simple
Plant it right once and it does the rest.
Sun
Full Sun
Pick the spot before you dig.
Water
When the top 2" of soil is dry
Water slowly and deeply. Check more often in its first summer.
Grows in
Zones 5-9
Enter your ZIP above to check your zone.
Your first year together
- 1Day 1
Plant it, then water slowly until the whole root ball is soaked.
- 2First few weeks
Keep the soil evenly moist while new roots settle in.
- 3First summer
Water deeply during hot, dry spells.
- 4Next spring
New growth starts. Feed as it wakes up.
Planting instructions
Choose a location with well-drained soil and full sun exposure. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball. Place the Shumard Red Oak in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the ground surface. Backfill with soil, firm gently to eliminate air pockets, and water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot. Provide regular watering during the first few growing seasons to help the tree establish a strong root system.
Watering & sunlight
Watering needs are never one-size-fits-all. Weather, soil type, drainage, plant size, and planting time all affect how quickly a plant dries out.
Use a slow-running hose, soaker hose, or drip system to water the root ball and surrounding root zone thoroughly. Allow the water to penetrate deeply (not just wet the top few inches of soil), and avoid frequent, shallow watering.
Before watering again, check the soil 3–4 inches deep near the root ball. If it feels dry, repeat this deep-watering process. If it feels moist or soggy, wait and check again in 1–2 days. Check the soil of newly planted trees and shrubs several times per week, especially during hot, dry, or windy weather.
Irrigation run times will vary based on flow rate, soil, and system setup.
Need help? Contact our plant experts for watering guidance tailored to your plant and growing conditions.
Shumard Red Oak requires full sun exposure—at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily—to thrive and achieve its fast growth rate.
Use a slow-running hose, soaker hose, or drip system to water the root ball and surrounding root zone thoroughly. Allow the water to penetrate deeply (not just wet the top few inches of soil), and avoid frequent, shallow watering.
Before watering again, check the soil 3–4 inches deep near the root ball. If it feels dry, repeat this deep-watering process. If it feels moist or soggy, wait and check again in 1–2 days. Check the soil of newly planted trees and shrubs several times per week, especially during hot, dry, or windy weather.
Irrigation run times will vary based on flow rate, soil, and system setup.
Need help? Contact our plant experts for watering guidance tailored to your plant and growing conditions.
Shumard Red Oak requires full sun exposure—at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily—to thrive and achieve its fast growth rate.
Care guide
Shipping & what's inside
Your plant ships in its nursery pot with the soil secured, packed so it stays steady on the way to you.
1-year guarantee
Every plant is covered by our 1-year guarantee. If something goes wrong, contact our team and we'll walk you through it.
Answered by Simply Trees plant expertsHow big does the Shumard Red Oak get?
The Shumard Red Oak grows into a large, stately tree, reaching a mature height of 60 to 80 feet with a canopy spread of 40 to 60 feet. Its broad, symmetrical crown and strong branches make it an ideal shade tree for spacious landscapes. The tree’s size and growth potential make it important to plant it in a location with enough room to accommodate its mature dimensions.
How fast does the Shumard Red Oak grow?
The Shumard Red Oak is a moderately fast-growing tree, adding 12 to 24 inches of height per year under optimal conditions. Its growth rate depends on factors such as sunlight, soil quality, water availability, and overall care. With proper maintenance, including regular watering and fertilization during its early years, the tree can quickly establish itself and develop into a sturdy and attractive shade tree.
Where is the best place to plant the Shumard Red Oak?
The best place to plant the Shumard Red Oak is in a location with full sun and well-draining soil. It thrives in areas with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily and prefers loamy, slightly acidic to neutral soil, though it can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay. Choose a spot with enough space for its mature size, away from overhead power lines or structures. Planting it in a yard or open landscape provides the room it needs to grow into a majestic shade tree while showcasing its beautiful fall colors.
How much space does the Shumard Red Oak need?
The Shumard Red Oak requires ample space to accommodate its mature size. It is best to plant this tree at least 20 to 30 feet away from buildings, structures, or other large trees to allow for its wide-spreading canopy, which can reach up to 40 to 60 feet in diameter at maturity. Proper spacing ensures adequate air circulation, prevents overcrowding, and allows the tree to thrive without competing for nutrients and sunlight.
How tall is a 10 year old Shumard Red Oak tree?
A 10-year-old Shumard Red Oak typically reaches a height of 15 to 25 feet, depending on growing conditions such as soil quality, water availability, and sunlight exposure. With its moderate to fast growth rate of around 12 to 24 inches per year, it establishes itself as a sturdy and attractive shade tree during this time. Proper care during its early years can significantly influence its size and overall health.
What color is the Shumard Red Oak in fall?
In fall, the Shumard Red Oak transforms into a stunning display of color, with its foliage turning shades of red, orange, and russet. The vibrant hues make it a popular choice for adding seasonal interest to landscapes. This dramatic color change typically occurs in late autumn, depending on the climate and weather conditions. The bold fall colors are one of the defining characteristics of this tree.
What color is the Shumard Red Oak in spring and summer?
In spring and summer, the Shumard Red Oak showcases lush green foliage with leaves that are glossy and vibrant. The leaves are deeply lobed, giving the tree a striking and elegant appearance during the growing season. This rich green color provides a beautiful contrast to its smooth gray bark, making it a standout feature in any landscape.
How often should I water Shumard Red Oak?
Shumard Red Oak requires consistent watering during its first few years to establish a strong root system. Water deeply once or twice a week, ensuring the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged. Established trees are drought-tolerant and only need supplemental watering during prolonged dry periods. Always check the soil; if the top 2-3 inches feel dry, it’s time to water. Mulching around the base of the tree can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Do I need to prune the Shumard Red Oak?
Pruning the Shumard Red Oak is not typically required for healthy growth, but occasional pruning can help maintain its shape and remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. The best time to prune is during late winter or early spring while the tree is dormant, as this minimizes stress and reduces the risk of disease. Avoid heavy pruning during the growing season, as it can disrupt the tree’s development. Regularly inspect the tree to ensure proper airflow and prevent overcrowding of branches.
What fertilizer is best for Shumard Red Oak?
Shumard Red Oak thrives with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer that promotes steady growth and healthy foliage. Look for a fertilizer with an NPK ratio such as 10-10-10 or 12-6-6. Apply it in early spring before new growth begins and again in mid-summer if necessary. For optimal results, ensure the soil is moist before application and follow package instructions for proper dosage. Organic options like compost or well-rotted manure can also provide nutrients while improving soil health.
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