Scarlet Oak (Quercus coccinea) is a deciduous tree native to the eastern and central United States, renowned for its vibrant red autumn foliage. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, it serves as a keystone species, crucial for supporting biodiversity. Its deep root system aids in soil stabilization and water retention, making it valuable for erosion control. The tree's acorns are a vital food source for wildlife, including birds and mammals, enhancing the ecological resilience of landscapes. Historically, Scarlet Oak has been used by Indigenous peoples for its wood and acorns. In food forests, it acts as a canopy layer, providing shade and shelter, and can be part of guilds with nitrogen-fixing plants like clover and understory shrubs such as blueberries, which thrive in its acidic leaf litter.
Growing Details
Scarlet Oak thrives in well-drained, acidic soils with full sun exposure. Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Mulching with its own leaves or other organic materials helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include nitrogen-fixing species like clover and understory plants such as blueberries. Avoid planting in waterlogged areas. Harvest acorns in late fall, and store them in a cool, dry place after leaching tannins.
Edible Parts
Seed
Tags
Keystone Specie Carbon Farming Attracts Wildlife Fire Wood Building Wood Windbreak Erosion Preventing Visual Appeal
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Quercus coccinea</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Eastern and central United States
applicable geo region: North America
language used: en
Flowering:
middle
of April for 30 days
Harvest:
middle
of September for 60 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(2/5)
edible uses: Acorns can be leached to remove tannins and ground into flour, which can be used in baking. They are best harvested in the fall after the first frost, which helps reduce tannin content.
Medicinal Rating:
(2/5)
medicinal uses: The bark of Scarlet Oak has astringent properties and has been traditionally used to treat minor wounds and inflammation. It can be made into a decoction for topical application.
health concerns: Acorns contain tannins, which can be toxic if consumed in large quantities without proper processing. Ensure thorough leaching before consumption.
other uses: The wood is valued for its strength and is used in construction and furniture making. Leaves can be used as mulch to improve soil acidity and structure.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Quercus coccinea
common names: Scarlet Oak; Black Oak; Red Oak
family: Fagaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Quercus
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.0 m
spacing: 10.0 m
growing difficulty: Medium
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: Low
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(5/10)
first harvest: 20 years
life span: 100 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 30.0 m
max width: 15.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Acid
flower type:
Monoecious
growth details: Scarlet Oak thrives in well-drained, acidic soils with full sun exposure. Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Mulching with its own leaves or other organic materials helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include nitrogen-fixing species like clover and understory plants such as blueberries. Avoid planting in waterlogged areas. Harvest acorns in late fall, and store them in a cool, dry place after leaching tannins.
Potential Disturbances: Scarlet Oak is susceptible to oak wilt, gypsy moth, and various borers. Encourage natural predators like birds and beneficial insects such as parasitic wasps and lacewings. Planting garlic or marigolds nearby can help repel pests. Regularly inspect for signs of infestation and use neem oil as an organic treatment.
Growth Timeline
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