Pin oak is an Illinois native and has been widely planted in landscapes for many years. Unfortunately this tree suffers greatly from chlorosis (yellowing) of the leaves due to high soil pH. This can be a very serious problem on this species, so pin oak is no longer recommended for landscapes in areas with high soil pH. In areas where chlorosis is not a problem, this tree can provide russet to red fall color.
This species is native to the Chicago region according to Swink and Wilhelm's Plants of the Chicago Region, with updates made according to current research.
Botanical name:
All Common Names:
Family (English):
Family (Botanic):
Planting Site:
- Residential and parks
Tree or Plant Type:
- Tree
Foliage:
- Deciduous (seasonally loses leaves)
Native Locale:
- Chicago area,
- Illinois,
- North America
Landscape Uses:
- Shade tree,
- Specimen
Size Range:
- Large tree (more than 40 feet)
Mature Height:
Mature Width:
Light Exposure:
- Full sun (6 hrs direct light daily)
Hardiness Zones:
- Zone 4,
- Zone 5 (Chicago),
- Zone 6,
- Zone 7,
- Zone 8
Soil Preference:
- Acid soil,
- Wet soil
Tolerances:
- Wet sites,
- Occasional flooding,
- Clay soil
Acid Soils:
- Requires
Alkaline Soils:
- Intolerant
Salt Spray:
- Moderately Tolerant
Soil Salt:
- Intolerant
Drought Conditions:
- Intolerant
Poor Drainage:
- Tolerant
Planting Considerations:
- Messy fruit/plant parts
Ornamental Interest:
- Fall color
Season of Interest:
- Early fall,
- Mid fall
Flower Color & Fragrance:
- Inconspicuous
Shape or Form:
- Oval,
- Pyramidal
Growth Rate:
- Fast
Transplants Well:
- Yes
Wildlife:
- Game birds,
- Game mammals,
- Migrant birds,
- Small mammals
More Information:
Tree & Plant Care
Chlorosis (yellowing of leaves) is a severe problem on this tree when planted in alkaline soils.
Prune oaks in the dormant season to avoid attracting beetles that may carry oak wilt.
Disease, pests, and problems
Oak wilt and oak blister are potential disease problems.
Insect problems mostly limited to galls.
Chlorosis can cause serious damage and decline.
Native geographic location and habitat
C-Value: 8
Native to low-land wet areas
Bark color and texture
Smooth gray, developing shallow, dark fissures with age.
Leaf or needle arrangement, size, shape, and texture
Simple leaves arranged alternately on the twig; lobed with bristle tips. Medium green in summer, changing to russet or red if chlorosis is not present.
Flower arrangement, shape, and size
Inconspicuous, male catkins and small female flowers on the same tree.
Fruit, cone, nut, and seed descriptions
Small acorn (1/2 inch) with a thin cap.