Cherrybark Oak
Quercus pagoda
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Description
Cherrybark Oak is a large, deciduous tree native to the southeastern United States, thriving in bottomland hardwood forests. It plays a crucial role in agroecology and regenerative agriculture by enhancing biodiversity and stabilizing ecosystems. As a canopy layer tree, it provides essential habitat and food for wildlife, including birds and mammals that feed on its acorns. The tree's leaf litter contributes to soil fertility and structure, promoting a healthy soil microbiome. Historically, its wood has been used by indigenous peoples for construction and tools. In a food forest, Cherrybark Oak can be paired with understory plants like pawpaw (Asimina triloba) and spicebush (Lindera benzoin) to create a diverse guild that supports a wide range of species.
Growing Details
Cherrybark Oak thrives in well-drained, loamy soils with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Prior to planting, incorporate organic matter such as compost to enhance soil fertility. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like clover can fix nitrogen, benefiting the oak. Avoid planting in compacted soils, and ensure young trees are protected from deer and other herbivores. Harvest acorns in late fall, and store them in a cool, dry place after processing.
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 pagoda</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: Southeastern 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: The acorns of Cherrybark Oak can be leached to remove tannins and ground into flour. They are typically harvested in the fall and require careful processing to reduce bitterness. Acorns can be roasted or used in baking.
Medicinal Rating:
(1/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, the bark has been used for its astringent properties to treat wounds and diarrhea. It can be prepared as a decoction or poultice. Caution is advised due to potential tannin content.
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 of Cherrybark Oak is highly valued for its strength and durability, making it ideal for furniture, flooring, and construction. It also serves as excellent firewood due to its high energy content.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Quercus pagoda
common names: Cherrybark Oak; Swamp Red Oak; Southern Red O
family: Fagaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Quercus
Growing Conditions
area needed: 10.0 m
spacing: 10.0 m
growing difficulty: Medium
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / -5ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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(6/10)
first harvest: 20 years
life span: 200 years
succession: Late
growth rate: Medium
max height: 30.0 m
max width: 20.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Monoecious
growth details: Cherrybark Oak thrives in well-drained, loamy soils with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Prior to planting, incorporate organic matter such as compost to enhance soil fertility. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like clover can fix nitrogen, benefiting the oak. Avoid planting in compacted soils, and ensure young trees are protected from deer and other herbivores. Harvest acorns in late fall, and store them in a cool, dry place after processing.
Potential Disturbances: Cherrybark Oak is susceptible to oak wilt, a fungal disease. Promote airflow by proper spacing and pruning. Natural pest management includes encouraging beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Planting garlic or chives nearby can help deter borers. Use neem oil as an organic spray against caterpillars.
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