Chinquapin Oak

(Quercus muehlenbergii)

Chinquapin Oak (Quercus muehlenbergii)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Quercus muehlenbergii, commonly known as Chinquapin Oak, is a deciduous tree native to a variety of habitats including rocky slopes, well-drained upland woods, and limestone outcrops in the central and eastern United States, extending into southeastern Canada and Northeast Mexico. It can grow to a height of 70 feet (21 meters) and a width of 50-70 feet (15-21 meters), with a rounded to spreading canopy that provides dappled shade. The leaves resemble those of the American chestnut, and in the fall, they turn yellow to orangish-brown, offering visual interest.

Chinquapin Oak is valued for its adaptability to different soil types, including alkaline soils, and its drought tolerance once established. It is often used in urban environments, parks, and large gardens for its attractive form and foliage. The tree is monoecious, with male flowers in drooping catkins and female flowers in short spikes, blooming from April to June. The acorns are sweet and edible, maturing in September or October, and are a valuable food source for wildlife. This oak is relatively low-maintenance, requiring full sun and well-drained soils. It is less susceptible to oak wilt than other species but can be affected by chestnut blight and oak leaf blister.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 40-60 feet
  • Width: 50-70 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Rabbit Resistant, Salt Tolerant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

A variety of habitats including rocky slopes, well-drained upland woods, and limestone outcrops in the central and eastern United States, extending into southeastern Canada

Other Names

Common Names: Chinkapin Oak, Yellow Chestnut Oak, Yellow Oak, Chêne De Mühlenberg, Chêne Jaune

Scientific Names: , Quercus muehlenbergii, Quercus muhlenbergii, Quercus castanea, Quercus prinoides var. acuminata, Quercus prinoides f. alexanderi, Quercus sentenelensis, Quercus brayi, Quercus acuminata, Quercus alexanderi

GBIF Accepted Name: Quercus muehlenbergii Engelm.