Willow Oak

Researched by Valerie Vischoric

Species: Quercus phellos
Common name:  Willow Oak
Family:  Fagaceae (Beech Family)
Clade:  Angiosperms (non-flowering seed plants)

Coordinates:  39.70825486, -75.12101821

Tree Tag: 547
A tag using this number is placed near the tree.

The first written observation of the willow oak was in 1723, and wood from these trees was used for pulpits, pews, bar tops, wagon axles, and much more. Willow oaks are native to the Southeastern and eastern United States and thrive in woods bordering swamps, streams, and canals. Due to their fast-growing nature and large canopies, willow oaks are commonly planted as shade trees. Willow oaks can grow up to 75 feet tall and 50 feet wide. They tolerate urban pollution and can survive in any type of soil, including clay. These trees also have a long lifespan, sometimes over 100 years. The leaves will turn green to yellow and then orange throughout the fall before dropping.

Willow oaks become mature and start producing reproductive structures after 15-20 years of age. As angiosperms, they produce flowers and bear their seeds in fruits. Willow oaks are monoecious, containing male and female reproductive structures on the same tree. The male flowers, catkins, are yellow and grow in droopy clusters that begin to bloom in late spring. This same type of inflorescence, or flower cluster, can be found on other oaks. Read More