Common Name

Willow Oak

Scientific Name

Quercus phellos

A popular street and shade tree with a rounded crown and slender, fine-textured, willow-like foliage that turns yellow in the fall. The Willow Oak is easily distinguishable from most other oaks by the narrow leaves. Resembling a Willow tree, it is recognized as an oak by the acorns and the tiny bristle tip at the end of the leaves. It has shallow roots, making it readily transplanted. The acorns are enjoyed by many animals, particularly squirrels. Height: 40-60’ Spread: 30-60’

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Tracheophyta
  • Class: Magnoliopsida
  • Order: Fagales
  • Family: Fagaceae
  • Genus: Quercus
  • Species: Quercus phellos
Habitat

Forest, Wetland

Distribution

Most common in the southeastern United States, native range from eastern Texas, Florida and north to southern New Jersey.

Seasonality

Spring, Summer, Fall

Abundance

Common

Activity Time

Diurnal

Diet

Behavior

Ecological Role

Acorns provide forage for squirrels and other wildlife. Willow Oak is the larval host of the White M Hairstreak (Parrhasius m-album).

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Threats & Impacts

Notes