If you are looking for unique oak trees to add to your landscape, then you have come to the right place. It can be hard to know what type of oak tree to buy because there are so many options available.
We have compiled a list of 12 types of oak trees that are commonly found in North Carolina.
Each one varies in its features and characteristics, so make sure to read all the details before making your purchase.
1. Blackjack Oak
The blackjack oak is a type of oak tree that is native to North Carolina. This tree is named for its dark, nearly black bark. The blackjack oak is a small tree, reaching a height of only 20-30 feet.
This tree has a short trunk and spreading branches. The leaves of the blackjack oak are oblong and have sharp teeth along the edges. The leaves are dark green in color and turn red or brown in the fall.
The acorns of this tree are small and dull-colored.
The blackjack oak is found in dry, sandy soils in the Coastal Plain region of North Carolina. This tree is tolerant of drought and salt spray.
The blackjack oak is often found in scrubby areas or on the edge of woods. This tree provides food and shelter for many animals, including deer, squirrels, rabbits, and birds.
2. Chestnut Oak
The chestnut oak is a type of oak tree that is native to North Carolina. This tree is known for its large, rounded leaves and its ability to produce a large number of acorns.
The chestnut oak can grow to be over 100 feet tall and is often used as a shade tree in landscaping.
This tree is also a popular choice for firewood due to its high density.
3. Chinkapin Oak
The chinkapin oak is a type of oak tree that is native to North Carolina. This tree is known for its distinctive bark, which is a reddish-brown color with deep fissures.
The leaves of the chinkapin oak are also unique, being either lobed or unlobed and having a toothed margin. These trees can grow to be quite large, reaching up to 80 feet in height.
The chinkapin oak is an important tree for many animals in North Carolina. This tree provides food and shelter for many different species of birds, squirrels, and other mammals.
The acorns of the chinkapin oak are especially important as a food source for these animals. In addition, the chinkapin oak is an important source of wood for humans.
This wood is often used for furniture, flooring, and other wooden products.
If you are lucky enough to spot a chinkapin oak in North Carolina, take some time to appreciate this beautiful and important tree!
4. Laurel Oak
The laurel oak is a type of oak tree that is native to North Carolina. This tree is known for its beautiful, glossy leaves and its fragrant flowers.
The laurel oak is a popular choice for landscaping because it is easy to care for and provides year-round interest.
The laurel oak grows best in full sun and moist, well-drained soil. It is relatively drought-tolerant once established. This tree should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
The laurel oak is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including scale insects, leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot.
However, these problems can be easily controlled with proper care and regular maintenance.
5. Live Oak
The live oak is a type of oak tree that is native to North Carolina. This tree is known for its long, drooping leaves and its ability to stay green all year round.
The live oak is a popular choice for landscaping because it is drought-tolerant and can tolerate poor soil conditions.
This tree grows best in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil. Live oaks can reach a height of 50 feet and a width of 40 feet.
6. Myrtle Oak
The myrtle oak is a type of oak tree that is native to North Carolina. This tree is known for its beautiful, deep green leaves and its ability to thrive in a variety of environments.
The myrtle oak is a popular choice for landscaping because it is low-maintenance and easy to care for.
This tree does well in full sun or partial shade, and it can tolerate drought conditions. The myrtle oak is also resistant to pests and diseases.
7. Overcup Oak
The overcup oak is a type of oak tree that is native to North Carolina. This tree gets its name from the fact that its acorns are often larger than those of other oak trees.
The overcup oak can grow to be up to 80 feet tall and has dark green leaves that turn yellow or brown in the fall.
This tree is a popular choice for landscaping because it is relatively easy to care for and provides good shade.
8. Post Oak
The post oak is a type of oak tree that is native to North Carolina. These trees are known for their strength and durability, and are often used in construction and furniture-making.
Post oaks are also a popular choice for landscaping due to their beautiful appearance.
There are many different types of post oak trees, but all of them share some common features. These trees have strong, thick bark that protects them from damage.
The leaves of the post oak are large and lobed, and the acorns are a favorite food source for many animals.
Post oaks can grow to be quite large, with some specimens reaching over 100 feet tall.
These trees prefer full sun and well-drained soil, and can tolerate drought conditions better than most other trees.
If you’re looking for a tough, low-maintenance tree for your property, the post oak is a great option!
9. Scarlet Oak
The Scarlet Oak is a type of oak tree that is native to North Carolina. This tree is known for its beautiful reddish-brown leaves, which make it a popular choice for landscaping. The Scarlet Oak can grow to be up to 80 feet tall and has a lifespan of around 100 years.
This tree does best in full sun and well-drained soil. It is relatively drought-tolerant and can withstand occasional flooding. The Scarlet Oak is also resistant to many pests and diseases.
However, it is susceptible to oak wilt, which can kill the tree if left untreated.
If you are looking for an attractive and low-maintenance tree for your yard, the Scarlet Oak is a great option!
10. Red Oak
The red oak is one of the most common types of oak trees in North Carolina. This tree is known for its reddish-brown bark and dark green leaves. The red oak can grow to be up to 100 feet tall and is a popular choice for landscaping and forestry projects.
This tree is also used in the production of furniture and flooring.
11. White Oak
The white oak is one of the most common oak trees in North Carolina. This tree can grow to be very large, with some specimens reaching heights of over 100 feet tall.
The white oak has a strong, straight trunk and its branches spread outwards to form a broad crown. The leaves of this tree are deep green in color and have a leathery texture.
The white oak produces small, acorn-shaped fruits that are popular with wildlife.
This tree is an important source of food and shelter for many animals in North Carolina.
12. Willow Oak
The willow oak is a type of oak tree that is native to North Carolina. This tree gets its name from its willow-like leaves, which are long and narrow with serrated edges.
The willow oak is a deciduous tree, meaning that it loses its leaves in the fall. These trees are typically found near streams or other sources of water.
Willow oaks are one of the most common types of oak trees in North Carolina. They can grow to be quite large, reaching up to 80 feet tall. The bark of these trees is dark brown or black and deeply furrowed.
The leaves are dark green and have a leathery texture. The flowers of the willow oak are small and greenish-yellow, blooming in the springtime.
These trees are an important food source for many animals, including deer, squirrels, and birds. The acorns produced by the willow oak are especially popular with wildlife.
If you’re looking for a beautiful and hardy tree for your North Carolina home, the willow oak is a great option!
