Post Oak

(Quercus stellata)

Post Oak (Quercus stellata)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Quercus stellata, commonly known as Post Oak, is a deciduous tree native to a variety of habitats including dry upland forests, savannas, and rocky outcrops in the Eastern and Central and Southern United States. It is a member of the white oak group and is known for its slow growth and resilience to rot, fire, and drought. Post Oak is a relatively small tree, typically reaching 10–15 meters (33–49 feet) in height with a trunk diameter of 30–60 centimeters (12–24 inches). Its rugged appearance is due to its distinctive branching pattern. The leaves are notable for their rounded, cross-like shape and hairy underside, with acorns that are 1.5–2 cm (5⁄8–3⁄4 in) long, maturing in their first summer.

Post Oak is valued for its adaptability to dry sites, its attractive crown, and strong horizontal branches, making it suitable for urban forestry. It is also utilized for Central Texas barbecue due to the quality of its wood. In cultivation, it thrives in full sun and requires medium amounts of water, preferring soils with medium to fast drainage. While it is not known for a particular susceptibility to diseases, its slow growth rate should be considered when planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 35-50 feet
  • Width: 35-50 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • 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., Fire Resistant, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to dry upland forests, savannas, and rocky outcrops in the Eastern and Central United States

Other Names

Common Names: Iron Oak

Scientific Names: , Quercus stellata, Quercus stellata var. stellata, Quercus obtusiloba, Quercus minor, Quercus stellata var. anomala, Quercus stellata var. rufescens, Quercus stellata var. parviloba, Quercus stellata var. palmeri, Quercus floridana

GBIF Accepted Name: Quercus stellata Wangenh.