Shingle Oak

Majestic, tall, oak trees aren't exactly the best at disguising themselves. Most of us can see an oak tree from a mile away! That is unless it's a Shingle Oak (Quercus imbricaria).

You might be thinking, how on earth can an oak tree go incognito? The answer lies in the shape of its leaves. Instead of the trademark lobed foliage, Shingle Oak's leaves are rounded and ovular, it's true!

Of course, it's leaves may be a slightly different shape than other oak varieties, but it's still got all of the other tried and true aspects we know and love about oak trees. Like it's color! You'll find this tree unfurrows a plethora of dark green leaves each spring.

The canopy is a uniform pyramidal shape when young and as it gets older turns into a broad round-headed tree that exudes might and power. Planting one means that once it's grown, you'll always have a place to sit in the shade and read a book on a hot summer day!

You won't be the only one enjoying it though, these trees, native to North America, are often hubs for wildlife. Find your local bluejays or cardinals perched in its branches!

The squirrels will also be happy for the supply of nuts, along with the shelter provided by Shingle Oak.

This tree is a member of the red oak group, with one of its defining characteristics being that the acorns are not ripe until the fall of their second year.

Depending on the conditions in your region, fall color can be variable. Sometimes ending up a yellow-brown and other times opting for a more reddish-brown color.

The leaves will often persist on the tree through the winter, giving texture and interest to your landscape during the colder months.

Impress your tree-loving friends with this uniquely leafed oak deciduous tree. Order a Shingle Oak for your landscape from our expert growers at Nature Hills Nursery.

How to Use Shingle Oak in the Landscape

Have you ever walked into a neighbors backyard or perhaps grandparents and come across a lovely old oak tree? It instills a sense of peace, purposefulness, and wisdom.

Add one as a specimen planting to your own backyard so that you'll be the friend, neighbor, or grandparent who lets their friends and family come over and relax underneath the attractive canopy.

For larger spaces, consider planting Shingle Oaks in groupings with a varied amount of space between. This makes a fantastic natural looking landscape.

Use a couple in the front yard as street trees or privacy trees. This not only brings up the value of your property, but it can also block the noises that often come with roadways!

Plant near a bench or porch swing and watch the leaves rustle and sway in the breeze all summer long.

Then, use the fall colors that the Shingle Oak is happy to provide as a backdrop for your yearly family portrait!

#ProPlantTips for Care

Native trees are always easy to care for because they're entirely acclimated to the area and have evolved to take quite a bit in stride. The Shingle Oak is no different.

When choosing the perfect spot to make your Shingle Oak's forever home, remember that it'll want to be somewhere in the full sun. Basking in those warm summer rays all day long is its favorite pastime after all.

It'll also do the very best in well drained soil. We can't say we much enjoy hanging out with our feet wet either!

While this tree will only grow to be medium-sized, should you want to give it a prune, you're free to do so. Simply wait for the last part of winter, grab a sharp pair of shears, and give it a trim!

When planting, consider doing so with a little root booster for Nature Hills Nursery to help encourage root growth while it's getting established.

You'll want to water well during the first year but once Shingle Oak has its bearings, it'll be quite a drought-tolerant! Try adding a layer of mulch starting an inch or two away from the base as another water conservation tip.

Sit back and relax in the shade of a Shingle Oak. Order one, or more, to add to your landscape today!